Concerns rise over possible arson in Santa Monica amid Los Angeles wildfires

Videos claim civilians are lighting fires in urban Santa Monica areas as wildfires devastate Los Angeles.

Amid the raging wildfires in Los Angeles County that have claimed at least five lives and destroyed over 1,000 structures, a video has emerged raising concerns about possible arson in Santa Monica. The video, shared by Andrew D. Huberman, a professor at Stanford Medicine, shows alleged incidents of civilians lighting fires in non-burning urban areas. Huberman claimed to have witnessed this activity firsthand at 302 Pico in Santa Monica, urging others to report such incidents immediately.

People are lighting fires in otherwise non-burning urban areas of LA. Saw this happen first hand at 302 Pico in Santa Monica. Called it in & fire dept & police responded. Stay safe and call in any activity ASAP. We don’t need more flames out here. pic.twitter.com/AZ4GLr6N3q

— Andrew D. Huberman, Ph.D. (@hubermanlab) January 9, 2025

Wow

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 9, 2025

The video quickly gained traction on social media, with notable figures like Elon Musk reacting to the claims. Musk commented, “Wow,” amplifying the post’s reach. Other users debated the allegations, with some pointing to resource mismanagement and environmental policies as potential contributors to the crisis. These discussions have fueled widespread speculation, though authorities have yet to confirm any links between the fires and intentional acts.

While concerns over arson dominate online conversations, the fires themselves have caused immense destruction across Los Angeles County. Major blazes include the Palisades Fire, which has burned over 15,000 acres, and the Eaton Fire, covering more than 10,000 acres. Smaller yet significant fires, such as the Hurst and Lidia Fires, continue to threaten communities, displacing residents and overwhelming emergency services.

Social media has become a focal point for both information and speculation, with users debating the causes of the fires and sharing unverified claims. While the Los Angeles Fire Department and local law enforcement have not yet responded to the video, officials continue to urge vigilance and prompt reporting of any suspicious activity.