Laundry Room Fire Evacuates Female Inmates at Augusta Detention Center

A fire broke out in the laundry room of the Charles B. Webster Detention Center at approximately 8:09 PM on Thursday evening, April 24th. The fire, which started in a large commercial dryer, quickly spread, damaging a second dryer and parts of the surrounding area.

Detention Center Sergeant Chad Dodaro responded immediately, using a fire extinguisher to help control the flames until the Augusta-Richmond County Fire Department arrived. The facility’s sprinkler system also activated, aiding in containing the blaze but causing water damage.

As a precaution, the adjacent inmate pod housing female inmates was promptly evacuated according to fire safety protocols. Deputies from various divisions secured the perimeter of the facility.

The Augusta-Richmond County Fire Department quickly extinguished the fire and ventilated the area. Investigators determined the likely cause was kitchen towels containing residual cleaning chemicals and grease, which ignited due to the high temperatures of the industrial dryers.

No injuries were reported, though Central EMS was on scene as a precautionary measure.

Sheriff Eugene Brantley expressed his gratitude to the Augusta Fire/EMA Department, the 911 Center, Central EMS, and all Richmond County Sheriff’s Office personnel who responded to the incident. “The quick thinking and brave actions of Sergeant Dodaro, the fast response of our firefighters, and the commitment of our deputies ensured that this incident was handled swiftly and safely,” said Sheriff Brantley.

Cleanup and repairs are underway, and the detention center has returned to normal operations with all inmates secure.