CHARLESTON, S.C. — An employee who was trapped inside a burning furniture warehouse said he’s grateful to the firefighter who rescued him.

Nine Charleston, S.C., firefighters lost their lives after entering the building in search of two employees who had been reported to be trapped.


One employee was able to get out. The other, Jonathan Tyrell, told CBS’ “Early Show” that he banged with a hammer, hoping someone would find him before the fire reached him.

A firefighter was eventually able to pull him out.

Tyrell said he hugged the firefighter and told him “thank you” over and over.

But soon after the firefighters entered, flames swept the warehouse, blowing out windows and collapsing the roof.

The cause of the fire at the Sofa Super Store Monday night is under investigation, although arson is not suspected.