Los Angeles, 8 October 2025 — Federal authorities have arrested Jonathan Rinderknecht, a 29-year-old former Uber driver from Florida, accusing him of intentionally starting the Palisades Fire, one of the most destructive wildfires in California’s history. He faces a federal charge of destruction of property by means of fire, which carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
The Allegations
Investigators allege that Rinderknecht deliberately ignited the Lachman Fire on January 1, 2025, in Pacific Palisades. Though firefighters quickly suppressed that blaze, it smoldered underground before resurfacing six days later as the Palisades Fire. Fanned by strong winds, the fire spread rapidly, ultimately killing 12 people, destroying more than 6,000 structures, and burning over 23,000 acres.
According to the criminal complaint, Rinderknecht was in the area on New Year’s Eve, appeared “agitated and angry” to passengers he had driven, and later returned to the scene to watch and film the fire as it spread. Authorities also cited digital evidence, including online activity and phone records, linking him to the blaze.
Arrest and Court Proceedings
Rinderknecht was taken into custody near his home in Melbourne, Florida, on October 7, 2025, following a nine-month investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California. He is expected to make his initial court appearance in Florida before being transferred to California to face trial.
Official Statements
Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli described the case as a stark reminder of the devastation caused by deliberate acts of arson:
“A single person’s recklessness caused one of the worst fires Los Angeles has ever seen, resulting in death and widespread destruction in Pacific Palisades. While we cannot bring back what victims lost, we hope this criminal case brings some measure of justice to those affected by this horrific tragedy.”
Outlook
The Palisades Fire stands as one of the deadliest disasters in Los Angeles County in recent decades. As Rinderknecht awaits trial, prosecutors have indicated that additional charges could follow as the investigation continues.
