September 25, 2026
The Eaton Fire litigation against Southern California Edison took another step forward on September 22, when Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Laura Seigle issued a ruling denying a request to let Edison International, SCE’s parent company, out of the case.
Edison International had moved for summary judgment, arguing it had no ownership or control over the equipment at the center of the lawsuit and no authority over its subsidiary. Judge Seigle denied the motion, finding the corporation had not met its burden of showing it bore no responsibility for the fire.
The January 2025 Eaton Fire killed 19 people, destroyed more than 9,000 homes, and devastated the community of Altadena. It ranks as the fifth-deadliest and second-most destructive wildfire in California history. More than 47,000 plaintiffs, representing over 18,000 households and businesses, are now suing SCE and Edison International, alleging the utility failed to properly maintain and inspect its equipment, failed to manage surrounding vegetation, and did not de-energize two transmission towers despite severe wind and dry-weather warnings.
Speaking to reporters after the hearing, Amanda Riddle, co-counsel with Gibbs Mura on the Eaton Fire litigation,“Edison International’s CEO has admitted they started the fire, while its attorneys are saying the opposite”and that the company’s position is “adding insult to injury to victims.” Riddle went on to say,“The corporation needs to be held accountable.”
The first bellwether trial, involving eight plaintiffs, is set to begin January 25, 2027.
If you or your family suffered losses in the Eaton Fire, call Gibbs Mura at (626) 699-4886 for a free, confidential consultation.
Source: Courthouse News Service, “Edison unlikely to escape liability in Eaton Fire lawsuit,” September 22, 2026.