Lawsuits Filed Against Southern California Edison

Southern California Edison (SCE) is facing multiple lawsuits from homeowners and renters who allege that the utility company is responsible for the destructive Eaton fire, which has devastated the Altadena area. Plaintiffs claim SCE failed to adequately de-energize power lines despite severe fire warnings, with one complaint suggesting that an electrical arcing event from SCE's equipment ignited the blaze. Eyewitness accounts and video evidence purportedly show sparks and fires occurring at the base of SCE's transmission towers just before the fire started. The Eaton fire has resulted in significant destruction, including nearly 2,000 buildings and the displacement of numerous residents. While SCE maintains that power lines were de-energized prior to the fire's onset, the ongoing investigations and lawsuits reflect a growing pattern of accountability placed on utility companies following catastrophic wildfires. In a broader context, SCE has previously faced substantial financial settlements related to past wildfire incidents.