Pasadena Jewish Temple Sues Edison: A Fight for Justice After Devastating Fire
Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center Sues Southern California Edison Over Eaton Fire
Pasadena, CA — The Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center has filed a lawsuit against Southern California Edison (SCE), alleging that the utility company was responsible for igniting the devastating Eaton Fire that ravaged the congregation’s historic sanctuary, preschool, and other buildings last year. The lawsuit, submitted to the Los Angeles County Superior Court on Tuesday, highlights serious concerns regarding Edison’s adherence to safety protocols, particularly during extreme fire conditions.
A Year of Loss and Healing
Senior Rabbi Joshua Ratner expressed the profound impact of the fire on the congregation, stating, “Our congregation has been without a physical home for more than a year, at a time when our members had the deepest need for refuge and healing. While we’ve continued to gather and support one another, the loss is deeply felt.” The temple, which has served hundreds of Jewish families since its establishment in 1941, managed to salvage only its sacred Torah scrolls amidst the destruction.
Allegations Against Edison
The lawsuit claims that Edison failed to follow its own safety protocols despite warnings of severe red flag conditions in an area known for its high wildfire risk. Specifically, the complaint points to the utility’s decision not to de-energize its transmission lines on the night of the fire and its maintenance of a decommissioned line that had not carried electricity for decades.
Additionally, the lawsuit references a recent investigation by the Los Angeles Times, which revealed that Edison had fallen behind on necessary maintenance of its aging infrastructure, despite assurances to state regulators. The complaint states, “SCE’s maintenance backlog and unutilized maintenance funds show that it was highly likely that the subject electrical infrastructure that ignited the Eaton Fire was improperly inspected, maintained, repaired, and otherwise operated, which foreseeably led to the Eaton Fire’s ignition.”
Seeking Justice and Prevention
The Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center is seeking financial compensation for the destruction of its campus, along with injunctive relief aimed at preventing future wildfires caused by Edison’s equipment. The government investigation into the fire’s cause has yet to be released, but Edison’s CEO, Pedro Pizarro, has indicated that a leading theory suggests a dormant transmission line in Eaton Canyon became energized, sparking the fire.
Broader Implications for Edison
Edison is currently facing numerous lawsuits from victims of the Eaton Fire, including one from the U.S. Department of Justice. The utility has proposed compensation to victims who agree to relinquish their right to sue. Under California law, many of these payments, along with lawsuit settlements, are expected to be covered by a state wildfire fund designed to protect major utilities from bankruptcy in the event their equipment ignites catastrophic fires. However, some wildfire victims argue that this law undermines accountability for utilities.
A History of Wildfire Incidents
The lawsuit also outlines a troubling history of Edison’s equipment being linked to multiple wildfires over the past decade, including the Round Fire (2015), Rey Fire (2016), Thomas, Creek, and Rye fires (2017), and the Woolsey Fire (2018). Investigators have also attributed the Fairview Fire in 2022, which resulted in two fatalities, to Edison’s power lines.
As the Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center seeks justice for its losses, the case underscores ongoing concerns about utility accountability and wildfire safety in California, a state increasingly vulnerable to devastating fires exacerbated by climate change and infrastructure challenges.
Edison has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the lawsuit or the allegations made against them. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for both the temple and the broader community affected by the Eaton Fire.