Feds Allege Suspect Hid Gun in Toy, Threatened Recent Palisades Fire

Federal prosecutors have charged a 29-year-old man, Jonathan Rinderknecht, with igniting the devastating Palisades fire in Los Angeles. This catastrophic wildfire led to the destruction of thousands of homes and resulted in the death of 12 individuals. Following his arrest last week in Florida, Rinderknecht appeared in court on a single charge: destruction of property by means of fire.

Background of the Incident

The Palisades fire erupted on January 1, 2023, shortly after midnight. Allegedly, Rinderknecht “maliciously set” the brush fire before remaining nearby, where he made multiple 911 calls and offered assistance to firefighting teams.

Recent Threats and Arrest

Prior to his arrest, Rinderknecht faced legal troubles in Florida. During a conflict with a relative, he reportedly threatened to burn down his home. His father expressed concern that Rinderknecht possessed a firearm, prompting police visits to their residence in West Melbourne.

• Incident Date: September 19, 2023 – Police responded to a disturbance regarding a threat made by Rinderknecht.
• Incident Date: September 25, 2023 – Police returned after a report concerning a firearm being in the home.

No charges stemmed from these interactions. During one police encounter, Rinderknecht claimed he would use the gun for self-defense against his brother-in-law. Officers later discovered a firearm concealed within a stuffed animal in the garage.

Legal Proceedings

During a recent court hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge Nathan W. Hill ordered Rinderknecht to remain in custody due to concerns he might flee, particularly since his family has ties in France. Prosecutors are preparing to present their case to a grand jury regarding potential additional charges.

Evidence and Additional Findings

Prosecutors provided circumstantial evidence tying Rinderknecht to the fire. Notably:

• A search of his phone revealed an image generated using ChatGPT that depicted a burning city.
• He made numerous 911 calls following the fire’s outbreak.
• He queried ChatGPT about liability related to fire caused by cigarettes.

Personal Background

Rinderknecht grew up in a family of Baptist missionaries who traveled extensively across the United States and primarily resided in France. He has lived in multiple locations in Southern California, including the Palisades area.

Jonathan Rinderknecht’s next court appearance is scheduled for October 17, 2023, where further legal proceedings will take place.