
As Los Angeles grapples with wildfires that have already claimed 25 lives and devastated thousands of acres, including homes and businesses, in just a week, the disaster has sparked not only grief but also a flood of bizarre conspiracy theories on social media. With the fires still raging, some internet users have turned to wild and unsubstantiated claims about the causes behind the fires.
One of the most outlandish theories involves music mogul Diddy. Some conspiracy theorists speculate that the fires were intentionally set to destroy evidence related to sexual abuse allegations against him. Ex-government official Catherine Austin Fitts brought attention to this idea, questioning whether any of the homeowners affected by the fires were connected to Diddy, suggesting that the fires were part of a scheme to cover up a supposed network of abuse linked to high-profile figures. The fires, which started in Pacific Palisades on January 7, have been claimed to be a deliberate act to protect people tied to Diddy and to erase evidence of these alleged events. Interestingly, Diddy’s Holmby Hills mansion has been untouched by the flames, despite the destruction in the surrounding areas.
Another far-fetched claim links the fires to California’s high-speed rail project, with conspiracy theorists arguing that the fires were intentionally started to clear land for the rail route. The theory suggests that the spread of the wildfires aligns with the proposed path of the rail network. However, fact-checkers have pointed out that the maps used to support this claim are inaccurate.
Actor Mel Gibson also fueled the speculation, questioning whether the fires were deliberately set to clear valuable real estate for redevelopment. He remarked in an interview that it seemed “a little convenient” that the fires coincided with the right wind conditions and that there were “people ready and willing” to start them.
One of the most outlandish conspiracy theories involves the idea of a “direct energy weapon” being used to start the fires, citing the survival of palm trees as supposed evidence. The theory suggests that because some trees remained standing while nearby cars and homes burned, the fires must have been caused by some form of advanced weapon. Experts, however, explain that palm trees have higher moisture content, which makes them more resistant to fire.
As the L.A. Fire Department continues its battle against one of the worst wildfire seasons in the city’s history, Fire Chief Erik Scott has urged the public to dismiss these unfounded theories and focus on recovery and rebuilding efforts.