The Line Fire Arsonist

The True Story of Justin Halstenberg

The Line Fire Arsonist: The True Story of Justin Halstenberg is a harrowing, meticulously researched exploration into one of California’s most chilling and destructive criminal minds. Written by investigative true crime author Elliot Christpher, this narrative delves deep into the life, crimes, and psychology of Justin Halstenberg—a man whose fires lit up the night sky and left behind charred landscapes, ruined lives, and a community scarred forever.
From the smoldering ashes of the Keller Peak Line Fire to the quiet panic that gripped Southern California towns, Inferno Within reconstructs a terrifying reality where fire was not a natural disaster, but a calculated act of terror. Through riveting storytelling and extensive research, the book offers readers a full spectrum look at the events that led to Halstenberg’s arrest and conviction, while also honoring the voices of those most deeply affected.
Drawing from court transcripts, law enforcement interviews, forensic reports, and first-hand survivor accounts, The Line Fire Arsonist is not merely a chronicle of destruction—it is a powerful narrative of resilience. It’s about the victims who stood back up, the fire crews who faced walls of flame to protect their neighbors, and a town that chose to rebuild from ashes with renewed purpose. Prepare to enter the mind of an arsonist, confront the weight of trauma, and discover the enduring power of justice, memory, and survival.