Marion woman cited, accused of starting Jumping Branch Fire

WLOS • March 31, 2026 • nation

Key Points:

Hilary Brooke Inman, 38, from Marion, is accused of starting the Jumping Branch Fire in McDowell County, which has burned 185 acres.
She was cited and charged under North Carolina General Statute 14-138.1 for starting a fire on grassland, brushland, or woodland without fully extinguishing it.
The North Carolina Forest Service reported the fire began due to improperly discarded smoking material.
As of Monday evening, the fire is 20% contained and continues to be actively managed by crews.