Coker University buildings ‘structurally sound’ after dining hall collapse

HARTSVILLE, S.C. (WBTW) — All of Coker University’s buildings are “structurally sound,” and safe for occupancy following a partial collapse of the dining hall ceiling on Saturday.

University officials said late Saturday night facilities were inspected by the Hartsville Fire Department and deemed safe for students to return.

A burst water pipe is to blame for the incident that happened around 5:30 p.m., university officials said. The building was quickly evacuated and there were no injuries.

Four residence halls housing 239 students lost power and were cleared out, the spokesperson said.

The Hartsville Fire Department was inspecting the residence halls Saturday evening, and the university said officials were working with the school’s food service provider to make sure student meals are able to continue.

This is a developing story, Count on us for updates.

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Adriana Cotero is News13’s weekend evening anchor and a morning reporter. She joined the team in July 2023 after working in the island of Guam. Adriana is from Saline, Michigan, and graduated from Central Michigan University. Follow Adriana on Facebook , X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram and read more of her work here .

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Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12 . See more of his work here .

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