Altadena Homeowners Accuse Southern California Edison of Tampering with Eaton Fire Evidence
Attorneys representing Altadena residents who lost their homes in the devastating Eaton fire have filed court documents accusing Southern California Edison (SCE) of tampering with crucial evidence by re-energizing transmission lines during the ongoing investigation into the fire. The fire, which started in January 2025, caused significant damage, destroying homes and killing 17 people.
The attorneys, from the Edelson law firm, claim that SCE violated a court order by re-energizing the transmission lines on January 19, 12 days after the fire started. The utility had previously assured the court that it would not touch the lines, but the re-energization occurred despite a restraining order meant to preserve evidence that could point to SCE as the cause of the fire.
The attorneys argue that SCE’s actions not only altered key evidence in the case but also deceived the court, the public, and the thousands of victims of the fire. They assert that they learned of the re-energization on February 6, when SCE sent a letter to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) providing an update on its investigation. During the re-energization of each of the four involved transmission lines, SCE technicians reported seeing a "small flash of white light" when the lines were re-energized.
SCE had opposed the temporary restraining order in court, claiming on January 21 that it was going beyond its preservation obligations. In response, the plaintiffs’ attorneys have accused SCE of lying in court multiple times to avoid complying with the order.
Kathleen Dunleavy, a spokesperson for SCE, defended the utility, stating that the company had informed the plaintiffs' attorneys on January 17 about its plans to test the transmission lines. She described the accusations as "absurd" and emphasized that the utility was committed to preserving evidence for the ongoing investigation.
A video from an ARCO gas station, allegedly showing sparks falling from a tower shortly before the fire started, has surfaced, adding to the mounting evidence.
The Eaton fire ultimately consumed 14,021 acres, destroyed more than 9,000 structures, and left tens of thousands of people with claims. The plaintiffs’ attorneys argue that SCE’s actions have complicated efforts to collect critical evidence that could help determine responsibility for the fire.
As the investigation continues, the legal battle between the homeowners and SCE is likely to play a key role in determining the outcome of this tragic event.
