Residents of Los Angeles are grappling with grief and rage as wildfires devastate the region, leaving them searching for answers and accountability. Actor Henry Winkler stirred controversy on January 8 by suggesting arsonists were to blame, writing on X, “There is an ARSONIST here in LA. May you be beaten unrecognizable!!!” His post went viral, accumulating over 1.9 million views. A viral clip shared later that day, showing individuals starting fires in Santa Monica, appeared to support his claim, gaining over 6.5 million views.

The fires, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, have wreaked havoc. Los Angeles County officials reported that over 1,100 homes were destroyed, five lives lost, and nearly 100,000 residents forced to evacuate. The Palisades fire alone consumed over 17,000 acres, making it the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles history. Described as “devastating and terrifying,” the flames have caused injuries and an estimated $10 billion in damages, echoing the catastrophic Camp Fire of 2018.

Authorities attribute the disaster to “weather whiplash,” with rapid weather shifts exacerbating the fire’s spread. However, videos of apparent arson have sparked outrage online, with users demanding swift prosecution. “Arrest them all now,” one person wrote, while others expressed heartbreak over the destruction.

As red flag alerts persist, officials urge residents to prioritize safety, noting that investigations into arsonist activities are ongoing.