One hospitalized after multi-family apartment complex fire on Hilton Head

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. (WTOC) - A fire at a multi-family apartment complex Sunday evening caused extensive damage to one unit and sent one person to the hospital with minor injuries, fire officials said.

In a media release, Hilton Head Fire Rescue says its 911 center received a report of a structure fire at 5 Gum Tree Road on Sunday, February 1, 2026. The first fire unit arrived at 8:17 p.m. and found a multi-family residence with four living units and visible flames.

Four engines, two medic units, the ladder truck, a Battalion Chief, and multiple support personnel responded to the fire. Officials say firefighters brought the blaze under control at approximately 8:44 p.m.

The fire caused extensive damage to the unit where it started, while two neighboring units sustained minor smoke damage. All occupants in the building were able to evacuate on their own before fire crews arrived.

One patient was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. Fire officials say the cause of the fire appears to have originated in the vicinity of the HVAC unit.