Table Rock Complex wildfires 100% contained, SC Forestry officials announce

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Table Rock Complex fires in Upstate South Carolina and western North Carolina are 100% contained, South Carolina officials said. 

The South Carolina Forestry Commission said crews were able to fully contain the wildfires after they burned over 15,000 acres across both states. 

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The decision to declare the Table Rock fires fully contained came after much-needed rainfall soaked the region on Monday. The Table Rock fire ignited on March 21 and burned nearly 14,000 acres before being contained. The Persimmon Ridge fire burned just over 2,100 acres. 

Three teenagers were arrested for allegedly starting the fires. Investigators allege the trio was smoking along a hiking trail and failed to properly put out their cigarettes, triggering the massive Table Rock fire. Nyzaire Jah-Neiz Marsh, 19, of Taylors; Tristan Tyler, 18, of Greenville; and Isaac Wilson, 18, of Greenville face charges of negligently allowing fire to spread to lands or property of another.

The fire was discovered while Pickens County sheriff’s deputies, state park personnel, and other first responders were searching for a missing hiker. As they responded to the rapidly growing wildfire, they evacuated seven hikers, including four individuals who were questioned about the fire’s origin.

State officials said efforts will now focus on suppression repair, which involves stabilizing exposed soil with seed and straw to prevent erosion and remove dirt and debris from stream crossings. 

“The fires will be considered controlled once it has been determined that firefighting resources are no longer needed,” the agency said. 

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