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California man pleads not guilty to starting fire that grew into massive wildfire

September 18, 2024

California man charged with 11 counts of arson

A 34-year-old man from California, Justin Wayne Halstenberg, has entered a plea of not guilty to charges of starting a fire that led to a large wildfire in Southern California.

As reported by AP News, the wildfire forced the evacuation of thousands of homes in the region.

Halstenberg, a delivery driver from Norco, appeared remotely for his arraignment on Tuesday in Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino.

He faces 11 charges related to arson. Court records indicate he was denied bail and has been appointed legal counsel.

His next court hearing is scheduled for Monday.

Authorities have alleged that his vehicle was spotted near multiple fire ignition points in early September.

Fires allegedly linked to Halstenberg

Authorities allege that Halstenberg attempted to start three separate fires within the span of an hour.

Two of these fires were quickly extinguished by firefighters and a good Samaritan.

The third fire, however, expanded rapidly and became known as the Line Fire.

This blaze has consumed 61 square miles (158 square kilometers) of land in the mountainous region to the east of Los Angeles.

The Line Fire has also been linked to injuries sustained by four firefighters and has threatened over 65,000 homes.

The fire is one of three major wildfires that erupted in Southern California during a heat wave earlier this month.

Investigations have tied Halstenberg’s vehicle to locations near where the fires originated.

Wildfires devastate Southern California after heat wave

The Southern California region has been severely affected by wildfires this month, with the Line Fire being one of the most destructive.

The fire broke out during a period of triple-digit temperatures, which exacerbated the spread of the flames.

The extreme heat conditions combined with the dry landscape created a dangerous environment for fire containment efforts.

Firefighters have been working continuously to control the flames, but the rapid spread and intensity of the fires have posed significant challenges.

The ongoing investigation into the fires has focused on identifying possible causes and connections to the arson charges against Halstenberg.

Court proceedings continue

As the case progresses, Halstenberg remains in custody, with his legal counsel expected to represent him at his upcoming court hearing.

Authorities have provided evidence linking Halstenberg to the areas where the fires began, and the charges against him reflect the gravity of the situation.

The case highlights the importance of quick response efforts by firefighters and community members who were able to prevent the other two fires from spreading.

California man pleads not guilty to starting fire that grew into massive wildfire: Summary

Justin Wayne Halstenberg, a delivery driver from Norco, California, has pleaded not guilty to charges of starting a fire that developed into the Line Fire, a wildfire that forced the evacuation of thousands of homes in Southern California.

Halstenberg faces 11 arson-related charges and has been denied bail.

Authorities allege that he attempted to start three fires, two of which were extinguished, while the third rapidly spread, burning 61 square miles and threatening over 65,000 homes.

Four firefighters were injured while combating the blaze.

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