Woman Agrees To Diversion Program In Wildfire Case

The wildfire burned over 2,000 acres of Horry County before declared 100% contained on May 21.

The woman charged with igniting the Covington Drive Wildfire in Carolina Forest appeared in court Wednesday.

Alexandra Bialousow allegedly started a fire in a backyard fire pit during a burn ban. She lacked proper water sources or garden tools to help control the flames causing them to spread.

The wildfire burned over 2,000 acres of Horry County after burning from March 1 before declared 100% contained on May 21. She faced charges for regulating fires on certain lands and negligently allowing fire to spread.

Bialousow avoided trial by agreeing to a diversion program as part of a negotiated resolution. That means there will be no determination of innocence or guilt in the case. The charges will be expunged from the record once she completes what is asked of her, which could be some training or community service.