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News in English (USA) / 10.10.2025 / 02:00

Florida Man Arrested for Starting Devastating Palisades Fire in Los Angeles

Authorities have arrested Jonathan Rinderknecht, a 29-year-old former Uber driver, on federal charges for allegedly maliciously igniting the deadly Palisades Fire that ravaged Los Angeles, leading to the destruction of numerous homes and the loss of 12 lives. Investigators linked Rinderknecht to the fire through various digital clues, including chilling messages he exchanged using ChatGPT, which he allegedly used to seek advice on arson techniques. The incident has sparked outrage among Pacific Palisades residents, many of whom are blaming local officials for failing to prevent the disaster. Rinderknecht remains in custody without bond as he awaits trial, while questions about the preventive measures taken by the LAFD continue to arise.
Department of Justice (.gov), ABC7 Los Angeles, The Atlantic, CNN, Los Angeles Times, New York Post, LAist, BBC, The New York Times, NBC Los Angeles