Jury Deadlock in Palisades Fire Trial

Texas News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jun 26, 2026 · 1m

The jury in Jonathan Rinderknecht’s trial for the Palisades Fire deadlock after two days of deliberation, unable to reach unanimous verdicts on any of the three charges—despite earlier claims of having a decision. Deep divisions among jurors, some firmly opposed to others, left them uncertain how to proceed, rejecting the judge’s offer to re-read testimony. Prosecutors allege Rinderknecht intentionally started the fire, which killed 12 and destroyed homes; defense argues fireworks were more likely. Both sides now debate next steps, with prosecution seeking further instructions and defense…