Newly released surveillance footage appears to show the ignition point of the Eaton Fire near Los Angeles, leading to a lawsuit against Southern California Edison (SCE). The law firm Edelson PC alleges the video depicts sparks emanating from an SCE electrical tower, immediately followed by a blaze erupting below.
“We believe this video, combined with other evidence, strongly suggests that faulty SCE equipment and questionable decision-making ignited the Eaton Fire,” stated Jay Edelson, founder of Edelson PC. The firm contends the video, which has been edited to highlight the alleged ignition, shows sparks falling onto the dry brush below. Minutes later, a bright flash is visible, and within ten minutes, the entire hillside is engulfed in flames.
A home burns in the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, on Jan. 8. (AP Photo/Nic Coury)
The Los Angeles Police Department acknowledged awareness of the video but declined further comment, citing the ongoing investigation. One lawsuit, filed by Altadena resident Evangeline Iglesias, claims SCE neglected to de-energize its equipment despite warnings of high fire risk, resulting in the destruction of her home.
A wall mural depicting Altadena stands next to the destroyed Altadena Hardware store after the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, on Jan. 14. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)
The lawsuit asserts that video footage, photographic evidence, and eyewitness accounts point to Edison International and SCE’s electrical equipment as the fire’s source. Edelson PC filed an emergency motion to preserve evidence, which the court granted. The firm states they will inspect the power lines and gather further evidence in the coming weeks. Over 2,000 residents have contacted the firm regarding potential claims against SCE, and Edelson PC anticipates filing additional lawsuits on their behalf.
A separate lawsuit against SCE and Edison International echoes the allegations, citing a video purportedly showing a fire originating from Edison’s equipment. This lawsuit accuses Edison of long-standing negligence and prioritizing profits over public safety, despite decades of warnings about the risks posed by their infrastructure.
An American flag hangs on the gate of a home destroyed by the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, on Jan. 10. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
In response, Edison International offered condolences to those affected by the wildfires and pledged cooperation with the investigation. SCE stated they are collaborating with law enforcement and provided investigators with access to the video. They emphasized the need for thorough expert analysis before drawing conclusions. An Edison spokesperson acknowledged the lawsuit but stated they had not yet reviewed it, reiterating their commitment to supporting the affected communities.
