The trial of Jonathan Rinderknecht, 29, accused of starting the deadly Palisades fire, began Wednesday with opening arguments in Los Angeles court.

Prosecutors alleged that Rinderknecht, an occasional Uber driver, intentionally started the fire and sought to conceal his involvement from authorities. They characterized his actions as motivated by a desire for revenge against society. Defense attorneys countered that fireworks, not arson, caused the blaze and argued there is no evidence linking their client to igniting the fire.

The fire began on New Year's Day 2025 when firefighters responded to a small blaze in the Pacific Palisades, a coastal Los Angeles neighborhood. Though initially extinguished, the flames continued smoldering underground before reigniting when strong winds picked up the fire.

The resulting Palisades fire became the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles city history, consuming approximately 23,000 acres. The blaze destroyed thousands of buildings and killed 12 people as it tore through the area.

Rinderknecht faces charges related to the fire that caused extensive property damage and loss of life in one of the city's affluent coastal communities. The trial is expected to continue as both sides present their cases regarding the fire's origin and the defendant's alleged role.