(TJV NEWS)  The Los Angeles Times reported that the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles history, which tore through Pacific Palisades and Malibu in early January, was reportedly reignited by an Uber driver who allegedly started the initial blaze days earlier near a popular hiking area.

Authorities announced Wednesday the arrest of 29-year-old Jonathan Rinderknecht, a Florida resident, suspected of igniting the fire on New Year’s Eve, the LA Times reported. Prosecutors said evidence from Rinderknecht’s digital devices included an image generated on ChatGPT showing a burning city, U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli told the LA Times.

“While we cannot undo the damage and destruction that was done, we hope his arrest and the charges against him bring some measure of justice to the victims of this horrific tragedy,” Essayli said, according to the LA Times.

The investigation, which spanned nine months, confirmed long-held suspicions about the fire’s origin. The Palisades fire ultimately consumed 23,400 acres and destroyed more than 6,800 structures, including numerous homes in Pacific Palisades and Malibu. Twelve people died in the blaze, LA Times reported.

The first fire, known as the Lachman fire, was reported around 12:17 a.m. on New Year’s Day near the Skull Rock trail, a resident told authorities. While some locals reported seeing fireworks in the area, investigators said they do not believe fireworks played a role, the LA Times reported. Officials noted the fire was ignited by an open flame but provided no further specifics.

Prosecutors allege that Rinderknecht drove through Pacific Palisades after an Uber shift, appearing agitated, and stopped near the Skull Rock Trailhead to attempt contact with a former friend. He reportedly played a French rap song about arson and took videos at the Hidden Buddha clearing, prosecutors said, LA Times reported.

Rinderknecht allegedly called 911 several times after igniting the fire but initially had no cell service. By the time he reached emergency responders, another resident had already reported the blaze. During one call, he reportedly asked ChatGPT: “Are you at fault if a fire is lit because of your cigarettes?” the criminal complaint says, according to the LA Times.

Authorities said Rinderknecht later moved to Florida, making false statements to investigators. News footage captured helicopters dropping water once wind conditions allowed, while ground crews fought towering flames threatening homes. The Los Angeles Fire Department eventually contained the blaze by 4:45 a.m., though crews remained to mop up hotspots, the LA Times reported.

Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement praising firefighters and emphasizing that the city is working toward justice and closure for those affected, according to the LA Times.