Pasadena Unified School District Sues Edison Over Eaton Fire Damages

The Pasadena Unified School District has filed a lawsuit against Southern California Edison, alleging that the utility's equipment caused the devastating Eaton Fire, which began on January 7, 2025, and resulted in extensive damage to educational facilities. The lawsuit seeks compensation for damages to several schools, including Franklin Elementary and Eliot Arts Magnet Middle School, which suffered significant losses impacting thousands of students. The district claims that Southern California Edison acknowledged faults in its electrical system coinciding with the fire's ignition, further supporting its allegations of negligence and other violations. This lawsuit is part of a broader wave of legal actions against the utility, with other municipalities, including Los Angeles County and the cities of Pasadena and Sierra Madre, also pursuing claims related to the fire. The Eaton Fire destroyed over 10,000 structures and claimed at least 17 lives, creating a substantial burden on the local community. Southern California Edison has stated that they are reviewing the lawsuit and will respond legally.