Fire investigators have requested that Southern California Edison Co. preserve its equipment in the area where the devastating Eaton fire originated earlier this month.
In a letter to state regulators on Monday, the Los Angeles County Fire Department—the lead agency in the investigation—directed the utility to keep its transmission facilities intact and on-site.
Current Status of the Eaton Fire
Currently, the Eaton fire is nearly fully contained, with reports indicating it is 98% under control.
Unfortunately, the blaze has wreaked havoc, destroying over 9,400 structures and claiming 17 lives, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
This fire ranks among the most catastrophic events in Los Angeles history, prompting large-scale evacuations and earning its place as one of the most severe natural disasters in modern U.S. history.
Investigation and Legal Repercussions
While the investigation has not definitively determined the fire’s cause, authorities have identified a “preliminary origin area” near three transmission towers operated by Edison.
This new information adds to the utility’s troubles as it faces potential legal repercussions, including a lawsuit linked to the tragic death of a woman whose home was consumed by the flames.
Another suit claims that a powerful electric arc from Edison’s equipment started the fire.
Edison’s Response
Edison has expressed its commitment to cooperating with the investigation.
Following the recent developments, the company saw its stock drop by as much as 3.1% on the New York Stock Exchange this past Monday.
Source: Claimsjournal
