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Edison Lawsuit: Who's to Blame for the Eaton Fire?
17 Jan
Summary
- Edison filed lawsuits against agencies and businesses after admitting equipment likely caused the Eaton fire.
- County allegedly failed to clear brush; fire department's warnings were reportedly delayed.
- Southern California Gas Company is named for allowing gas flow during the destructive blaze.
Southern California Edison has initiated lawsuits against several government agencies and businesses, asserting they bear shared responsibility for the devastating Eaton fire. The utility company has admitted its equipment likely ignited the blaze, which tragically resulted in 19 fatalities and the destruction of over 9,400 structures in Altadena.
Among the defendants are Los Angeles County, accused of neglecting brush clearance, and the county's fire department and emergency management office for allegedly issuing delayed evacuation warnings. Southern California Gas Company is also cited for permitting gas to flow during the inferno, exacerbating the catastrophe.
These counterclaims are common in wildfire litigation, but Edison's admission of probable fault is notable. The lawsuits were filed on the last day for claims related to the Eaton fire, as victims and agencies have already sued Edison, citing evidence of stressed equipment and arcing power lines.
