WNC Woman Charged with Causing Jumping Branch Wildfire, Forest Service Says

Marion woman charged with starting wildfire in northern McDowell County

As of Tuesday morning, the fire is 185 acres in size and 20% contained.

WNC woman charged with causing Jumping Branch wildfire, Forest Service says

As of Tuesday morning, the Jumping Branch fire is at 185 acres and is 20% contained.

Marion woman cited, accused of starting Jumping Branch Fire

A Marion woman is accused of starting a wildfire that has burned 185 acres in McDowell County.

Marion Woman Charged After Cigar Ash Sparks Jumping Branch Wildfire in McDowell County

Last Updated on April 1, 2026 8:10 am A Marion woman has been charged in connection with the Jumping Branch Fire burning in McDowell County, after the North Carolina Forest Service determined the fire was caused by improperly discarded smoking material. Hilary Brooke Inman, 38, of Marion, was cited and charged Tuesday under North Carolina General Statute 14-138.1 for starting a fire on grassland, brushland or woodland without fully extinguishing…