Federal trial for man accused of starting devastating Los Angeles fire begins
Jonathan Rinderknecht is accused of "maliciously" starting a fire that developed six days later into one of the most destructive fires in Los Angeles history, destroying homes and killing 12 people.
By Kevin Killough
Published: June 8, 2026 1:13pm
Jury selection in the federal trial of a man accused of starting the deadly Pacific Palisades fire in Los Angeles last year is scheduled to begin on Monday.
Jonathan Rinderknecht is accused of "maliciously" starting a fire that developed six days later into one of the most destructive fires in Los Angeles history, destroying homes and killing 12 people, ABC News reported.
He was indicted on destruction of property by means of fire, arson affecting property used in interstate commerce, and timber set afire. He pleaded not guilty and, if convicted, he faces up to 45 years in prison.
His defense stated in a court filing last month that he "denies he willfully and maliciously set" the fire that developed into the larger blaze, and therefore can't be held responsible for the fires that spread from it.
Rinderknecht was working as an Uber driver when he ignited a bushfire that got out of control, federal prosecutors allege.
https://justthenews.com/nation/crime/federal-trial-man-accused-starting-devastating-los-angeles-fire-begins
