Investigation into Power Line as Possible Cause of Eaton Fire Ramps Up

After initially claiming there was no evidence its equipment was at fault in the Eaton Wildfire that left more than a dozen people dead, Southern California Edison (SCE) is now investigating one of its power lines as the possible origin of the blaze.

The utility is checking a “zombie” power line. According to SCE spokesperson Kathleen Dunleavy, zombie power lines are no longer energized.

The fire, which broke out in early January, was driven by intense winds and killed 17 people, destroyed 9,000 structures in Altadena and Pasadena, and burned more than 14,000 acres.

At least two videos appear to show sparks coming from the power line, and then the fire breaking out on the hillside in Eaton Canyon.

At least 50 law firms appeared in court on Monday, representing Altadena and Pasadena residents who have filed lawsuits against Edison. The City and the Pasadena Unified School District have also filed lawsuits.

SCE is gathering evidence and inspecting its equipment in the area where the fire started.

In the days after the deadly fire started, SCE repeatedly claimed there were no “electrical or operational abnormalities” coming from its equipment in the area.

“There’s no doubt that SCE is responsible,” said Gursey. “They’re the ones at fault, it’s been shown.”

Dunleavy said her SCE team started their new phase of the investigation on Monday. There is no timeline for when the investigation will be completed.