Sandra Tillman Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities in Berkeley County have released the name of the woman who died after a home collapsed Thursday morning, leaving two people trapped inside. The Berkeley County Coroner’s Office confirmed that the victim was 65-year-old Sandra Tillman, a resident of New York. Officials said Tillman was one of two individuals inside the residence when it gave way, trapping both occupants under the debris.
Emergency crews were called to the scene on Rufus Lane at 7:42 a.m. Thursday after reports came in about a structural collapse with people possibly inside. First responders, including fire and rescue personnel, immediately began efforts to reach those trapped. Both victims were eventually pulled from the wreckage after a challenging extrication process.
Tillman was rushed to the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) hospital, where she was admitted to the Burn Unit for treatment. Despite medical efforts, she died later that evening as a result of the injuries sustained in the collapse. The second individual who was rescued has not been publicly identified, and their current medical condition remains unknown.
The incident has prompted a multi-agency investigation to determine the cause of the collapse and whether any safety concerns were overlooked. The Berkeley County Coroner’s Office is leading the investigation in collaboration with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Officials have not released further details about what may have caused the structure to fail, but they are expected to examine construction, maintenance, and possible environmental factors.
Neighbors in the area reported shock and concern following the tragedy. Residents described Rufus Lane as a typically quiet part of the county, making the sudden collapse all the more unsettling for the community. Several neighbors expressed condolences for the victim’s family and voiced anxieties about the stability of older homes in the area.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether the house was under construction, renovation, or regular use at the time of the collapse. The focus of the investigation will likely include a structural assessment, analysis of building materials, and any history of code violations or prior issues connected to the property.
Officials are asking the public for patience as the investigation moves forward. Given the nature of structural incidents, investigators must carefully gather evidence and consult with engineers to provide clear answers on what led to the collapse.
The death of Tillman marks a tragic end to what was initially a rescue operation filled with urgency and hope. First responders faced a dangerous situation, working to safely extract the trapped individuals without causing further collapse. Despite their successful efforts to reach both victims, the severity of Tillman’s injuries ultimately proved fatal.
Local leaders and emergency officials have extended their sympathies to Tillman’s family while also thanking the firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement officers who responded swiftly to the scene. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by both residents in unsafe structures and the emergency personnel who put their lives on the line to save others.
As the investigation continues, the community is left waiting for answers about how such a devastating collapse could occur. Until then, authorities emphasize that the case remains open, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available from the coroner’s office, SLED, and the State Fire Marshal.
