California Today

Jury Selection Begins in Palisades Fire Arson Trial

08 June 2026 10:00

Jury selection has started in the federal arson trial of Jonathan Rinderknecht, accused of starting the fire that became the deadly Palisades Fire. - The fire began as the Lachman Fire on Jan.

1, was suppressed, but rekindled on Jan. 7 during a Santa Ana windstorm.

- The disaster killed 12 people and destroyed thousands of homes in Pacific Palisades and Malibu. - Defense argues scapegoating; prosecutors cite phone geolocation and a lighter found in Rinderknecht's car.

- The trial is expected to last about two weeks, with opening statements midweek.

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