January 2025 Palisades Fire: Suspect Arrest Statement and LAFD After-Action Review Report

Today, the United States Department of Justice announced the arrest of a suspect in connection with the Palisades Fire that took place in January 2025. Los Angeles City Fire Department Interim Fire Chief Ronnie Villanueva released the following statement on the arrest:

"Today, the U.S. Department of Justice announced the arrest of a suspect in connection with January's Palisades Fire. This action was deliberate, intended to cause devastating harm to the City of Los Angeles. This arrest is a critical step toward ensuring accountability, justice, and healing for our city.

We are forever grateful to our frontline responders, law enforcement partners, and the people of Los Angeles for their vigilance and support for one another during this incredibly challenging year. Although the flames have been extinguished, the impact of these fires will linger for years to come. Our hearts are with the families and neighborhoods who faced tremendous loss.

The Los Angeles City Fire Department remains committed to protecting our city and standing with our communities as they rebuild and heal. As we enter yet another fire season, we ask all Angelenos to stay alert and report any suspicious activity."

Following this morning's announcement, the Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) released its After-Action Review Report (AARR) on the Palisades Fire, detailing the first 36 hours of the department's response.

The LAFD is releasing the After-Action Review Report (AARR) in coordination with the U.S. Department of Justice, following the arrest of the suspect, Jonathan Rinderknecht. The goal of the report is to identify lessons learned from the first 36 hours of response to enhance preparedness and response for future wildfires. Los Angeles City Fire Department Interim Fire Chief Ronnie Villanueva released the following statement regarding the AARR:

"We first want to acknowledge the tragic losses our community has faced and honor the extraordinary bravery of our firefighters and first responders, who worked tirelessly for 25 days under extreme conditions. As a department, and as a city, we are forever grateful for their dedication and courage.

The goal of the After-Action Review Report (AARR) is to provide greater clarity and accountability for the events surrounding the Palisades Fire. We hope that it strengthens public confidence in the Los Angeles Fire Department's readiness to respond to any future wildfires.

Since January 2025, the LAFD has implemented several new processes to protect the city, including strengthened interagency coordination, upgraded communications technology, enhanced wildfire training and evacuation drills, and improved pre-deployment protocols. In partnership with various local agencies, the LAFD is also expanding outreach to equip our communities with critical wildfire preparedness resources.

Our commitment is to continuously improve as we deliver upon our mission to preserve life, protect property, and safeguard the Los Angeles community."

Attachments:
LAFD Palisades Fire After-Action Review Report
AARR-Associated Fact Sheet