Marc Torchi

South Carolina man Marc Torchi has been blamed for the April 2009 wildfires outside the Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, area.

Torchi was fined for a small yard fire four days before the wildfires began. Despite denying his involvement in the wildfires, Torchi and his family have received death threats from people who believe he is responsible.The Denver Post: S.C. Blaze Likely Surged After Firefighters Left It

On Saturday, April 18, 2009, Torchi was reportedly burning trash in the yard of his Conway, South Carolina, home. After leaving the fire unattended, he returned to see the blaze out of control. The fire department was called, but Torchi was able to douse the fire with a garden hose. The fire department came to Torchi's home, then left after deciding the incident was no longer a threat.WTOC (Georgia): SC woman: Don't Blame Husband for Wildfire

Four days later, the backyard was found engulfed in flames. Investigators stated that somehow the fire must have re-ignited, possibly due to strong winds and low humidity. The fire then spread to an area of 31 square miles, damaging 70 homes and causing more than $16 million in damages. No injuries have been reported.The Denver Post: S.C. Blaze Likely Surged After Firefighters Left It

Torchi has been blamed by many for starting the wildfire, which is the worst in 30 years in South Carolina. He also stated that he has received death threats on the Internet. Torchi claims his innocence in the wildfires, saying if anyone should take the blame it should be the firefighters who deemed the fire under control and left his home.WTOC (Georgia): SC woman: Don't Blame Husband for Wildfire