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Jurors deadlocked in arson trial of Palisades Fire suspect
ABC7 Los Angeles • • general
Key Points:
- A jury is currently deadlocked in the arson trial of Jonathan Rinderknecht, accused of starting the Palisades Fire, which devastated the Pacific Palisades community in early 2025.
- Prosecutors allege Rinderknecht set a small brush fire on New Year's Eve 2024 out of revenge and anger, which smoldered underground before erupting into the deadly Palisades Fire fueled by Santa Ana winds.
- The defense disputes the evidence linking Rinderknecht to the fire, arguing the prosecution presented only fragmented proof and suggesting fireworks, not arson, caused the blaze.
- The Palisades Fire burned over 23,000 acres, destroyed nearly 6,800 structures, and resulted in 12 deaths, making it the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles history.
- Investigators used witness statements, surveillance, cell phone data, and fire pattern analysis to build their case, while the defense highlighted possible evidence contamination and alternative causes for the fire.
