What started the Table Rock Fire? Wildfire now measures 4,556 acres, 0 percent containment
Four teenagers are accused of starting the Table Rock State Park fire on March 21 through negligent behavior.
According to the latest infrared data from a surveillance flight, the wildfire measures 4,556 acres, nearly doubling its reach on Wednesday.
The Table Rock Fire remains at 0% containment, and while no injuries have been reported, evacuation orders have been issued for affected areas.
The Pickens County Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with the South Carolina Forestry Commission, is leading the ongoing investigation into the Table Rock wildfire.
Pickens County Sheriff Tommy Blankenship said authorities are investigating the incident.
Officials have identified the suspects and are assessing potential charges against the individuals involved.
A detailed description of the charges will be released later.
The severity of the charges will ultimately depend on the extent of damage caused by the wildfire.
According to a press release for the South Carolina Forestry Commission, deputies initially discovered the blaze while searching for missing hiker Stephanie Womacks.
The search for Womacks has been called off since the Table Rock wildfire was ignited on Friday, March 21.
A burn ban is in place due to the heightened risk of fire spreading in dry conditions, according to SCFC.
In South Carolina, there are two types of burning bans: a State Forestry Burning Ban, declared by the Forestry Commission director, and a Governor's Burning Ban, proclaimed by the governor upon recommendation by the state forester.
Following the State Forester's recommendation, SC Gov. Henry McMaster declared a governor's burning ban during the Table Rock wildfire.
McMaster urged everyone to use common sense and understand that starting a fire can and will result in jail time.
According to the South Carolina Forestry Commission, violating such a ban can result in severe penalties.
Violating either a State Forester's Ban or a Governor's Ban carries a fine of up to $200 for the first offense.
The fine increases to at least $500 for second and subsequent offenses.
Travis Rose covers Anderson County for the Independent Mail. Reach him via email at trose@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Greenville News: What started the Table Rock State Park fire? More than 4,556 acres burn
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