Charleston Woman Arrested After Crime Spree Involving Arson, Burglary, and Vehicle Theft

CHARLESTON, S.C. – A 44-year-old woman is facing multiple charges after police linked her to a string of arson, burglary, and vehicle theft incidents across Charleston last weekend.

Suspect Identified as Marlney Fernandez

Charleston police confirmed that Marlney Fernandez has been charged with second-degree burglary, breaking into a motor vehicle, grand larceny, attempting to maliciously burn property, two counts of third-degree arson, and four counts of second-degree arson.

Investigators used surveillance footage and coordinated efforts across several departments to connect Fernandez to a series of crimes in both West Ashley and downtown Charleston.

Fires and Vehicle Theft Reported

On August 15, police say Fernandez started multiple fires in West Ashley between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m.:

• A trash can fire inside the bathroom at Zen Asian Fusion on Sam Rittenberg Boulevard.
• Another trash can fire inside the bathroom at a McDonald’s on Savannah Highway.
• The theft of a Toyota Land Cruiser from a Circle K on Savannah Highway. The SUV was later recovered on Drake Street.

By the following morning, August 16, the alleged crimes had escalated downtown. A Jeep Wrangler was found engulfed in flames on Reid Street, causing damage to a nearby home. Police also discovered a Chevrolet Malibu had been intentionally set on fire.

The Charleston Fire Department responded to two additional blazes at the Circle K on East Bay Street—one near gas pumps and another near propane tanks. Both were extinguished before spreading further.

Police also reported that Fernandez attempted to ignite a Dodge SUV on Drake Street by tampering with the fuel tank.

Burglary and Theft Downtown

Later that morning, Fernandez allegedly burglarized a home near George and Meeting Streets, stealing several items later found in her possession. Surveillance cameras also captured her entering an unlocked vehicle on Pinckney Street near Church Street and taking property.

Arrest and Next Steps

Fernandez was arrested Tuesday and remains in custody while awaiting a bond hearing. Charleston police say the investigation remains active, and additional charges are possible as evidence is reviewed.

The spree of fires and thefts rattled both West Ashley and downtown residents, highlighting the quick coordination between fire crews and law enforcement that prevented even greater damage.

Readers in Charleston who witnessed any of these incidents or have concerns about neighborhood safety are encouraged to share their experiences at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.