Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys, a leading personal injury law firm specializing in wildfire claims, is intensifying its investigation into Southern California Edison’s (SCE) potential role in the devastating Altadena Fire (also known as the Eaton Fire) that tragically took 17 lives and destroyed thousands of homes and businesses. A recent LA Times article revealed that SCE may have been aware of the risks associated with a power shutdown in the area, yet failed to take adequate actions to mitigate that risk.
This investigation follows a recent theory unveiled by attorneys representing fire victims. They suggest that a long-idle transmission tower in Eaton Canyon may have been re-energized the evening of the fire when SCE began de-energizing other parts of its power grid. This theory is supported by witness accounts and other evidence suggesting a momentary increase in electrical current on SCE’s transmission lines in Eaton Canyon around the time the fire began.
The LA Times uncovered public records indicating that SCE was warned in 2022 about the possibility of a power load surge on certain transmission lines, including specifically those in Eaton Canyon, when power lines in other parts of SCE’s grid were de-energied. Specifically, a March 2022 report prepared by the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) showed that preemptively cutting power to key transmission lines could cause a “Direct Load Impact” of 900 to 1,000 megawatts, potentially causing those lines to overheat and spark a fire.
Despite these warnings, SCE delayed a critical $17.3-million project to upgrade the transmission lines, which could have mitigated the risk of a power surge. This project, approved three years ago, was not scheduled to be completed until June 2025.
“The information revealed by the LA Times about SCE’s awareness of the potential fire hazards, coupled with the new theory presented by attorneys and witness accounts, raises serious questions about SCE’s decision-making and commitment to public safety,” said Bill Karns, a partner at Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys. “We are determined to uncover the facts and hold SCE accountable for any negligence that may have contributed to this tragedy.”
At Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys, we deeply empathize with individuals and families who have been impacted by the Altadena Fire, also known as the Eaton Fire. We understand the profound challenges you may be facing during this difficult time. We invite you to share your experiences with us. Our team has extensive experience in wildfire litigation and is fully committed to standing by your side, fighting relentlessly for the justice and support you deserve. You’re not alone on this journey.
“We understand the immense suffering caused by this devastating fire, and we are committed to providing compassionate and dedicated legal representation to those who have lost loved ones, homes, or businesses,” added Michael Karns. “We encourage anyone affected by the Altadena Fire to contact us for a free consultation to discuss their legal options.”
About Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys:
Karns & Karns is a respected personal injury law firm that passionately fights for client rights and justice. With a proven history of securing substantial settlements and verdicts, we stand up for individuals who have suffered due to the negligence of others, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
Media Contact:
Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys
L.A Lawyers Helping L.A Wildfire Victims
www.karnsandkarns.com/lawildfires/
1-800-484-3946 (1-800-4THE-WIN)
