Investigators said the massive wildfire, which started at Table Rock State Park on March 21, was the result of a “negligent act” by four teenage hikers. The young men involved in the incident have been identified. Pickens County Sheriff Tommy Blankenship said he has been contacted by people in the community about charges as well.

While the Table Rock Fire grew significantly today, the Persimmon Ridge Fire saw only modest expansion. The weather conditions that created such dramatic fire activity yesterday were much milder today, allowing crews to strengthen firebreaks along key expanses of both fires.