2 people found dead in Columbia apartments near Harden Street

Two people were found dead at a Columbia apartment complex on Thursday, according to officials.

Richland County Coroner Gary Watts confirmed two bodies were found at Allen Benedict Court Apartments. Additional details were not immediately available.

The two were found in separate apartments, Watts said. Their identities will be released after the next of kin is notified. An autopsy will determine the causes of death.

The Columbia Fire Department was called to the apartment complex around 9:45 a.m., spokesman Mike DeSumma said. Hazmat crews are on the scene inspecting the home for any carbon monoxide or gas leaks, DeSumma said.

Chief Aubrey Jenkins told WLTX that firefighters noticed a suspicious smell inside the apartment.

Residents of the building where the two people were found reported smelling an odor of gas in recent weeks, reports WIS.

Columbia police are also investigating.

“The two victims were found deceased in separate apartments during welfare checks,” Columbia Fire said in a tweet. “Gas utilities have been shut off to the building while the investigation continues.”

The complex, which is a public housing complex owned by the Columbia Housing Authority, is located just off Harden and Laurel streets. .

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

This story was originally published January 17, 2019 at 12:01 PM.