ARSON IN CALIFORNIA! Suspect Arrested in Devastating San Bernardino County Line Fire
A 34-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson in connection with the Line Fire in San Bernardino County, California. 🌐 #News #HighlandCA #California #Crime
HIGHLAND, CA – Thick smoke fills the air, and the acrid scent of burning vegetation lingers across San Bernardino County. Communities are on edge as the Line Fire continues to rage, consuming tens of thousands of acres. Amid the chaos, authorities have made an arrest.
On Tuesday, Justin Wayne Halstenberg, 34, was taken into custody on suspicion of arson. He faces multiple charges, including arson of an inhabited structure, arson of forest land, and possession of flammable material.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office announced that Halstenberg is currently being held at the Central Detention Center with bail set at $80,000.
Line Fire Threatens Thousands of Homes
The Line Fire, which started on September 5, has scorched over 34,000 acres, according to Cal Fire.
Emergency evacuation orders have been issued for multiple communities, with over 13,000 structures in immediate danger. Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency and deployed the California National Guard to aid in the firefighting efforts.
An additional 52,000 structures remain under evacuation warnings, as the fire remains only 14% contained. Nearly 2,700 firefighters, equipped with helicopters, engines, and bulldozers, are working to bring the blaze under control.
Investigation into Fire’s Cause Ongoing
Halstenberg is suspected of starting the fire near Baseline Road and Aplin Street in Highland, though authorities have yet to reveal the motive or method behind the alleged crime.
As the investigation continues, officials are urging anyone with relevant information to reach out to Detective Jake Hernandez of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department at 909-425-9793 or submit an anonymous tip.
The situation remains critical as firefighters work around the clock to protect lives and property from the fast-moving inferno.
As the Line Fire continues to disrupt lives and threaten communities, our thoughts are with the families who have been displaced and those who face uncertainty in the days ahead. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the brave firefighters, emergency responders, and volunteers who are tirelessly battling the flames and working to protect lives and homes in these challenging times.
What is a Line Fire?
A line fire refers to a wildfire or controlled burn where flames form a continuous “line” as they move across an area, often driven by wind and topography. In the context of wildfires, it can describe the advancing front of the fire, where the flames are most intense and destructive. In controlled burns, a fire line is deliberately set to clear vegetation and prevent larger, uncontrolled fires from spreading.
The term can also simply refer to the name given to a specific fire, such as in the case of this local news story.
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Ì would like to know what the status of the Line Fire is. Since it’s already up in Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead, I need to know what direction it is moving and how fast. Back in the early Y2K, a fire started in or near Big Bear and traveled all the way to Apple Valley (Willow Fire). It got to an acre from my back fence here in Apple Valley. It would help if you could report on wind conditions and direction. It has taken the distance from Big Bear/Crestline 24 years to get its growth back. At the rate it has been moving, and the %-age of containment, it could possibly make it down to the Mariannas in Apple Valley. Be safe out there. I know it’s no easy task. I pray for the safety of all of you there risking your lives to save ours. God bless all of you.
Thanks for reading and commenting! Those are great questions – ones that we wish we had the answers to! Stay safe. Prayers are ALWAYS wise! Hang in there. – Jack and Kitty