HIGHLAND – (INT) – Prosecutors announced Thursday formal charges against an arson suspect accused of starting the Line Fire.

Justin Wayne Halstenberg was identified as the lone suspect who allegedly started the fire September 5th near Baseline Road and Aplin Street in Highland. Halstenberg was arrested late Tuesday and was jailed in lieu of 80-thousand-dollars bail. He is facing nine charges.

Investigators disclosed Thursday that Halstenberg struck three times. "Based on evidence received from extensive and ongoing investigations, we believe the defendant attempted multiple times within an hour to ignite a fire," DA Jason Anderson said. "His first attempt occurred on Bacon Ln. in Highland. That fire was reported and extinguished by local firefighters.

His second arson was just east of Bacon Ln. on Baseline, which was stomped out by a good Samaritan.

"Undeterred, he ignited a third fire, which became known as the Line Fire," Anderson said.

Sheriff Shannon Dicus says a vehicle observed at the fire scene was traced to Halstenberg’s residence in Norco where additional evidence was found.

The investigation was submitted to the district attorney who filed formal charges against Halstenberg Thursday.

The fire is slowly coming under containment after destroying one home near Running Springs and the Keller Peak fire lookout.

Story Date: September 20, 2024