In a major legal outcome from May 2025, 35‑year‑old Justin Wayne Halstenberg of Norco was found guilty of setting the Line Fire in Southern California back on September 5, 2024  . Prosecutors proved he deliberately set three fires within one hour near Highland, CA—the first two were stopped by firefighters and a passerby, but the third ignited into the disastrous blaze. That fire ultimately consumed around 43–44 k acres, forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents across towns like Running Springs and Forest Falls, and injured several firefighters .

He was convicted on seven counts related to the initial wildfire plus two additional counts for a separate fire, including aggravated arson of forest land and property, and possession of incendiary materials, which could carry a life sentence . The jury concluded his actions were intentional, and his conviction sends “a clear message” that such destructive acts will bring severe consequences to individuals and communities .

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🧭 Why the case matters
• The Line Fire was a fast-moving inferno fueled by extreme heat and dry vegetation, causing widespread evacuations, significant property loss, and multiple injuries .
• Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, enabling additional state and federal resources to combat the blaze .
• This conviction underscores the mounting legal scrutiny on individuals who deliberately start wildfires, highlighting the high stakes of such crimes in California’s increasingly fire-prone environment.