San Bernardino District Attorney Charges Man with Multiple Arson Counts in Devastating Line Fire

Overview of the Incident

On Thursday, September 12, 2024, the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office announced multiple arson charges against 34-year-old Justin Wayne Halstenberg of Norco. Halstenberg is accused of intentionally starting the Line Fire, a devastating blaze that originated in the City of Highland on September 5. Currently, the fire has scorched over 37,000 acres, displacing thousands of residents, closing schools, and endangering the lives of hundreds of firefighters and first responders.

A Chain of Attempts Leading to Disaster

According to investigators, Halstenberg allegedly made three attempts to ignite fires within an hour on September 5. The first attempt occurred on Bacon Lane in Highland, where firefighters promptly extinguished the fire. The second attempt occurred east of Bacon Lane on Baseline Avenue, where a bystander managed to stomp it out. However, the third fire attempt—now known as the Line Fire—took hold, spreading rapidly across forest land and residential areas.

Impact of the Line Fire

The Line Fire has severely impacted the San Bernardino County area, with thousands of families forced to evacuate, and one residence confirmed destroyed. The fire has also led to one reported injury among firefighters. The blaze continues to threaten nearby communities as firefighters work to contain it.

Charges Filed Against Halstenberg

The District Attorney’s Office has filed multiple charges against Halstenberg, including:

1. PC 451.5 - Aggravated Arson

2. PC 451(a) - Arson Causing Great Bodily Injury (Injury to Firefighter)

3. PC 451(b) - Arson of a Residence

4. PC 451(c) - Arson of Forest Land (Bacon Lane)

5. PC 453(a) - Possession of Incendiary Device (Bacon Lane)

6. PC 451(c) - Arson of Forest Land (Baseline Avenue)

7. PC 453(a) - Possession of Incendiary Device (Baseline Avenue)

8. PC 451(c) - Arson of Forest Land (Line Fire)

9. PC 453(a) - Possession of Incendiary Device (Line Fire)

The District Attorney noted that additional charges may be filed if further damage or injuries occur as the fire remains active.

District Attorney’s Statement

“The devastation that has unfolded due to one man's alleged actions cannot be undone. Thirty-seven thousand acres of forest land and mountain communities might never be what they once were. I hope that with the investigative efforts of our law enforcement partners and the thorough prosecution of this case, we can offer some measure of justice,” said San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson.

Upcoming Arraignment and Bail Request

Halstenberg’s arraignment is scheduled via video for September 13 at the Rancho Cucamonga Superior Courthouse. The District Attorney’s Office has indicated they will request a no-bail status, citing the severe risk and ongoing threat posed by the Line Fire.

Case Details

• Defendant: Justin Wayne Halstenberg

• Arraignment Date: September 13, 2024

• Case Number: FSB24003353