Multiple lawsuits were filed Monday against Southern California Edison Co. by homeowners who allege the utility is responsible for damage to their homes occurring during the ongoing Eaton Fire.
The lawsuits alleges that SCE failed to comply with essential electrical and fire safety standards, including failing to maintain power lines properly and overgrown vegetation.
At least seven law firms filed suits.
An SCE representative issued a statement regarding the litigation filed by one the firms.
“Our hearts remain with our communities during the devastating fires in Southern California, and we remain committed to supporting them through this difficult time,” the statement read. “SCE crews, contractors and mutual assistance partners are dedicated to safely restoring power to our customers. SCE understands that a lawsuit related to the Eaton Fire has been filed, but has not yet been served with the complaint. SCE will review the complaint when it is received. The cause of the fire continues to be under investigation.”
Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian filed on behalf of local homeowner Jeremy Gursey, whose property in the 2000 block of Lake Avenue in Altadena was destroyed.
Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian’s complaint, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, claims SCE failed to properly maintain its electrical equipment and de-energize power lines despite warnings of extreme fire danger.
The lawsuit alleges that In a January 8 statement, SCE acknowledged having transmission facilities in the area but said distribution lines west of Eaton Canyon were de-energized before the fire started. In an Electric Safety Incident Report filed January 9, SCE stated its preliminary analysis showed no electrical anomalies until more than an hour after the fire began.
Bridgford, Gleason & Artinian’s suit alleges SCE knew of extreme fire risks, with the National Weather Service recording wind gusts up to 99 mph in Altadena and issuing a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” warning the day before the fire started.
The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages on multiple grounds including negligence, inverse condemnation, trespass, and violations of state utility and safety codes.
SCE declined to comment on the specifics ofthe pending litigation but said it is reviewing the incident.