Teens arrested in connection to Table Rock wildfire

PICKENS COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) — Four teens were arrested Tuesday for allegedly starting a wildfire at Table Rock State Park on March 21.

The fire began while Pickens County deputies were searching for Stephanie Womacks, a hiker who was last seen on March 3.

According to the South Carolina Forestry Commission, Nyzaire Jah-Neiz Marsh, 19, Tristan William Tyler, 18, and Isaac David Wilson, 18, were arrested and charged with negligently allowing fire to spread to lands or property of another.

The wildfire, officials said, was started after the four were smoking on a hiking trail at the state park and did not put out their cigarettes. Sheriff Tommy Blankenship said the group of teenage hikers alleged action has cut short efforts to locate Womacks.

Another minor was arrested and charged in connection to the wildfire, but was not booked into jail. He was released to his parents.

“They will be held accountable for their actions,” Blankenship said. “I can promise you that.”

Marsh, Tyler and Wilson were booked into the Pickens County Detention Center and released on bonds of $7,500 each.

As of Tuesday afternoon, the Table Rock fire is more than 13,000 acres and is 30% contained.