Sinkhole spreading in Newberry development (video)

Realtor Vincent Hampton was visiting his girlfriend at her home in Newberry Corners when he noticed a sinkhole opening up in a nearby retention pond.

So he sent his drone up to get a better and safer look.

The video he created reveals a roughly 75-foot long series of sinkholes opening up since the heavy rains of Tropical Storm Elsa passed through on Wednesday—and, as of Thursday afternoon, the series of holes are expanding and getting deeper.

Hampton, who works for Rize Realty, shared his video and images with Mainstreet Daily News. The video shows long trenches that appear to be about 15 feet deep in some places. Homes sit within about 50 yards of both sides of the trenches. 

According to Newberry Mayor Jordan Marlowe, the homeowners association and Newberry Fire Department have been notified of the sinkhole. The HOA manager for the development said via email on Thursday that an engineering company will be assessing the area.

In October 2020, a giant sinkhole opened up in Gainesville after heavy rains, eventually forcing the city to condemn several homes.

Editor’s note: This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.