California Man Faces Life in Prison for Starting Devastating Line Fire That Burned 44,000 Acres
A Southern California man could spend the rest of his life behind bars after being convicted of starting the massive Line Fire, which scorched 44,000 acres and forced thousands to flee mountain communities and suburban neighborhoods in September 2024.
The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office announced Friday that Justin Halstenberg of Norco was found guilty on seven felony counts related to the Line Fire. He was also convicted of two additional counts linked to a second fire. Charges included aggravated arson of forest land and property, as well as possession of flammable materials—offenses that could result in a life sentence.
According to prosecutors, Halstenberg attempted to ignite multiple fires in the Highland Hills within just an hour. His first two attempts were thwarted—one by firefighters, the other by a quick-thinking civilian. Tragically, his third attempt succeeded, igniting what would become the Line Fire on Baseline Street in Highland.
The wildfire rapidly spread, fueled by scorching temperatures and dry brush, prompting mass evacuations across several communities, including Running Springs, Forest Falls, Arrowbear Lake, Mountain Home Village, Angelus Oaks, Seven Oaks, and parts of Highland and San Bernardino. Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in response to the fast-moving inferno.
“This outcome is a huge victory for the City of Highland, our mountain residents, and all the firefighters who fought a massive battle protecting lives, homes, and property,” the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department said in a statement on social media.
