Justin Halstenberg from Norco has been convicted on multiple charges related to the Line Fire, a wildfire that burned 44,000 acres and forced thousands to evacuate Southern California mountain communities in September 2024.
The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office announced Halstenberg was found guilty on seven counts connected to the Line Fire, including aggravated arson of forest land and property, as well as possession of flammable materials. He was also convicted on two counts related to another fire, facing possible life imprisonment.
Authorities stated Halstenberg made several attempts within an hour to start fires near a suburban neighborhood in Highland. Firefighters and civilians extinguished his initial efforts, but his third attempt ignited the devastating Line Fire on Baseline Street.
Evacuations were ordered for several mountain towns, including Running Springs, Forest Falls, and Angelus Oaks, while Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in San Bernardino County due to rapidly spreading flames fueled by dry conditions and high heat.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department hailed the guilty verdict as a major victory for the community and the firefighters who battled the blaze.