Justin Wayne Halstenberg, a 34-year-old resident of Norco, California, was taken into custody following an investigation by the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department into the wildfire that has resulted in over 34,000 acres being burned.
A California man has been arrested in connection with the San Bernardino Line Fire, which has scorched tens of thousands of acres of forestland. The wildfire, which began last week, has led to significant damage and the evacuation of residents in affected areas.
Justin Wayne Halstenberg, a 34-year-old resident of Norco, California, was taken into custody following an investigation by the San Bernardino Sheriff's Department into the wildfire that has resulted in over 34,000 acres being burned.
“Highland Station detectives, in collaboration with Cal Fire investigators, identified Justin Wayne Halstenberg as the suspect who started a fire in the area of Baseline Road and Alpin Street in the city of Highland, also known as the Line Fire, on September 5, 2024,” said the sheriff’s office in a press release.
Halstenberg has been a delivery driver for FedEx since last year and previously worked at the US Postal Service, according to the New York Post. He is facing multiple charges, including arson of an inhabited structure, arson of forest land, and possession of flammable material.
Authorities have not provided further details on how Halstenberg is suspected of starting the fire. He is currently being held at San Bernardino's Central Detention Center on $80,000 bail, with a court appearance scheduled for Thursday.
The Line Fire, which began on September 5, has had devastating effects on the region. The blaze has forced nearby residents to evacuate and resulted in school closures due to the heavy smoke. Several firefighters have also been injured while battling the wildfire. As of Wednesday, the fire was 14 percent contained.
In response to the escalating situation, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Saturday and deployed the National Guard to assist with evacuation efforts.
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