North Charleston Brush Fire Near I-26 Spreads From Encampment — Man Arrested: What Property Owners Near the Scene Need to Know

The Incident

On April 20, 2026, a fast-moving brush fire erupted on Weber Boulevard near I-26 eastbound in North Charleston. Fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, the fire quickly spread, consuming three acres before fire crews managed to contain it. The blaze caused significant disruptions, including road closures, and posed serious threats to nearby properties and vehicles. The fire reportedly originated in or near an unhoused encampment in the area, raising concerns about the safety and oversight of such sites.

Local authorities arrested one individual in connection with the fire, though the specific charges have not yet been disclosed. Residents and property owners near the scene are left grappling with the potential damages to their homes, vehicles, and businesses, as well as the broader implications of the incident. As a Charleston attorney, I find it deeply troubling that a preventable fire has resulted in such widespread risk and disruption. My thoughts are with all those affected as they navigate the aftermath.

What South Carolina Law Says

In South Carolina, intentional or reckless acts that lead to fires are governed by specific statutes. Under SC Code Ann. § 23-9-10, it is unlawful to willfully or negligently set fire to any property in a manner that endangers others or causes damage. This statute is particularly relevant in cases involving reckless burning, such as fires originating in encampments where proper precautions may not have been taken.

Property owners affected by fires may also seek relief under civil liability laws. If the fire resulted from negligence—whether by the individual arrested or by entities failing to address known safety risks—those harmed may pursue damages for property loss, emotional distress, and other related impacts. Additionally, insurance companies may exercise subrogation rights to recover payouts made to policyholders from responsible parties.

Government entities can also face liability if they fail to mitigate known risks. For example, if officials were aware of fire hazards in the encampment and did not take steps to abate them, affected parties may have grounds to pursue claims for negligence. South Carolina law recognizes the duty of municipalities to ensure public safety, and failure to do so can lead to significant legal consequences.

Your Rights and Options

If your property or vehicle was damaged in this fire, or if you were otherwise affected, you may have legal options to recover compensation. Here’s what you can consider:

• File a property damage claim: Submit claims to your insurance provider for damage to homes, vehicles, or other assets.
• Pursue civil liability against responsible parties: If negligence or reckless behavior caused the fire, you may seek damages from the individual or entity involved.
• Explore government liability claims: If local officials failed to address known fire risks, you may have grounds for a negligence claim against the municipality.
• Document all losses: Keep detailed records of damaged property, repair costs, and any other financial impacts to strengthen your claim.
• Consult with an attorney: Legal counsel can help assess the viability of your case and guide you through the claims process.

What I Look For When Evaluating These Cases

When evaluating cases related to fires and property damage, I focus on several key factors. First, I investigate the origin of the fire and whether it was caused by intentional acts, negligence, or natural conditions. Determining liability is crucial, and I carefully review reports from fire crews, witness statements, and any available video footage.

Next, I assess the extent of the damages. This includes reviewing property appraisals, repair estimates, and insurance coverage. Understanding the financial impact on my clients helps me build a strong case for compensation. I also look for evidence of emotional distress, particularly in cases where families were displaced or faced immediate danger.

Finally, I examine whether government entities or other third parties could be held accountable. If there were known risks—such as the presence of an encampment in a high-fire-risk area—that were not addressed, I explore avenues for holding responsible parties accountable for their inaction.

How Opposing Parties Will Fight Back

In cases like this, defendants often employ several strategies to limit their liability. For instance, individuals accused of recklessly starting the fire may argue that the conditions leading to the blaze were beyond their control, such as the dry weather and high winds. They may also dispute the extent of their involvement, claiming they were not directly responsible for the ignition.

Government entities may invoke defenses under SC Code Ann. § 15-38-15, which addresses comparative negligence and joint liability. They may argue that the fire was an unforeseeable event or that their resources were insufficient to mitigate the risks posed by the encampment. Additionally, municipalities might claim immunity under certain provisions of South Carolina law, complicating efforts to hold them accountable.

Insurance companies representing defendants may also push back, attempting to minimize payouts by questioning the validity of claims or the extent of damages. These tactics can be frustrating and overwhelming for property owners, which is why having an experienced attorney is critical.

Related Practice Areas at Traywick Law Offices

At Traywick Law Offices, we regularly handle cases involving property damage, negligence, and personal injury. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a fire, a car accident, or another type of harm, we are here to help you navigate the legal system and pursue the compensation you deserve.

If you or someone you know has been affected by this incident, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. Together, we can explore your rights and options to help you rebuild and recover.