Myrtle Beach, August 22, 2025
News Summary
A woman from Myrtle Beach, Marleny Fernandez, was arrested for multiple offenses including arson and burglary related to a crime spree in West Ashley and downtown Charleston. The incidents included fires at local businesses and the theft of a vehicle, leading to her being charged with serious crimes. She is currently held in pre-trial detention with significant bond set for several charges.
Myrtle Beach
Marleny Fernandez, a 44-year-old woman from Myrtle Beach, was arrested on August 19, 2025, following a string of alleged arson and burglary offenses in West Ashley and downtown Charleston. Police have charged her with multiple crimes including second-degree burglary, grand larceny over $10,000, breaking into a vehicle, and three charges related to arson.
The incidents forming this alleged crime spree reportedly began on the evening of August 15. Authorities responded to a fire in a bathroom trash can at Zen Asian Fusion, a restaurant located at 2037 Sam Rittenberg Blvd in West Ashley, around 7:30 p.m. Shortly thereafter, another fire was reported at a nearby McDonald’s, located less than half a mile from Zen Asian Fusion.
On the same night, a Toyota SUV was stolen from a Circle K gas station at 1805 Savannah Highway. The stolen vehicle was later found abandoned on Drake Street, where several vehicles, a residence, and a gas station sustained fire damage. By 6:30 a.m. on August 16, a fully engulfed 2018 Jeep Wrangler was discovered at the intersection of Hanover and Reid streets, putting part of the road at risk due to the intensity of the flames. A nearby 2008 Chevy Malibu was also located smoking, raising suspicions as it was locked with no signs of forced entry.
Firefighters were also called to the Circle K gas station on East Bay Street where two separate fires were extinguished, including one involving gasoline and another near propane tanks. Signs of attempted arson were noted in a Dodge SUV in the vicinity of Drake Street. Additionally, a burglary was reported at a residence near the intersection of George and Meeting streets, with stolen items later found in Fernandez’s possession.
Surveillance footage obtained by the Charleston Police Department showed Fernandez breaking into an unlocked vehicle and stealing items. Investigations involved coordinated efforts across multiple teams, leading to her identification and subsequent arrest.
Following her arrest, a bond of $200,000 was set for five of the six charges against Fernandez during a hearing on August 20. However, the bond for the second-degree arson charge was denied. As of August 21, Fernandez was still in pre-trial detention at the Charleston County jail. It is also noteworthy that she has a history of arrests in Georgetown and Horry counties for misdemeanor offenses.
Background Context
The recent uptick in crime has raised concerns among local residents and businesses, especially as vandalism and fire-related incidents in public areas seem to be on the rise. West Ashley and downtown Charleston are known for their thriving communities and popular dining spots, making these criminal activities particularly alarming. The Charleston Police have indicated that they continue to strengthen their response to such incidents, employing advanced investigative techniques to track potential offenders.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Arrest Date | August 19, 2025 |
| Charges | Second-degree burglary, grand larceny over $10,000, breaking into a vehicle, three arson-related charges |
| Notable Incidents | Fires set at Zen Asian Fusion and McDonald’s; stolen Toyota SUV; arson in vehicles |
| Investigation Collaboration | Coordinated efforts among multiple investigative teams |
| Bond Set | $200,000 for five charges; second-degree arson charge denied |
| Previous Criminal History | Misdemeanor offenses in Georgetown and Horry counties |
FAQ
Who is Marleny Fernandez?
Marleny Fernandez is a 44-year-old woman from Myrtle Beach, recently arrested for multiple criminal offenses including arson and burglary.
What charges has Fernandez faced?
Fernandez has been charged with second-degree burglary, grand larceny over $10,000, breaking into a vehicle, and three arson-related charges.
When were the incidents reported?
The first reported incident occurred on August 15, 2025, with subsequent events unfolding into August 16.
Where did the alleged crimes take place?
The crimes primarily occurred in West Ashley and downtown Charleston, specifically at various restaurants, gas stations, and residential areas.
What is the current status of Fernandez?
As of August 21, 2025, Fernandez is still in pre-trial detention at the Charleston County jail.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ten Injured in Boat Shooting in Little River, South Carolina
High-Speed Police Chase in North Charleston Ends in Collision
Mass Shooting at Memorial Day Weekend Party in Little River
North Charleston Man Granted Bond in Murder Case
Shooting During Memorial Day Gathering in Little River
North Charleston Police Seize Modified Firearm and Marijuana
North Charleston Police Investigate Shooting at Greentree North Apartments
Tragedy Strikes Memorial Day Boat Party in Little River
Tragic Mass Shooting in Myrtle Beach Leaves One Dead
Mass Shooting in Myrtle Beach Leaves One Dead and Eleven Injured
Additional Resources
- Count on 2 News
- Fox Weather
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: Charleston, South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
