Predawn Fire at Motel Kills Six, Injures 12

A predawn fire filled a five-story motel with smoke, killing six people and forcing guests to jump out windows or climb down bed sheets to safety, Greenville officials said.

At least a dozen people were injured at the Comfort Inn & Suites, including at least five who were in critical condition at a hospital burn unit in Augusta, Ga., officials said.

Fire Chief Gary Downey said the motel was not required to have sprinklers. The blaze began about 4 a.m. on the third floor of the motel, which had 46 registered guests. The cause was under investigation.