Altadena in Ashes: Utility Giant Sued for Catastrophic Wildfires
In the wake of a devastating month for Los Angeles, marked by relentless wildfires ravaging communities from the Palisades to Altadena, one family has taken a stand against the utility company they believe is responsible for their unimaginable loss.
Sophie and Hagop Mehtmetian, long-time residents of Altadena, have filed a lawsuit against Southern California Edison (SCE), alleging gross negligence and a systematic failure to implement crucial safety measures that led to the catastrophic Eaton Fire. This blaze, fueled by SCE’s poorly maintained infrastructure and outdated equipment, destroyed over 4,000 structures, displaced more than 32,500 people, and tragically claimed 16 lives.
The Mehtmetians, represented by attorney Greg L. Kirakosian, lost their family home and irreplaceable heirlooms to the flames. Their lawsuit paints a harrowing picture of SCE’s disregard for public safety, citing the utility’s failure to de-energize power lines during red-flag weather warnings and its neglect to address vegetation clearance in a known “Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.”
These allegations echo a troubling pattern, with similar accusations tied to the Woolsey Fire (2018), Thomas Fire (2017), and now the Palisades Fire and others across Los Angeles this month. The Mehtmetians’ lawsuit seeks full compensation for their losses and demands systemic reforms to prevent future tragedies.
As LA communities continue to grapple with the aftermath of this devastating fire season, the Mehtmetians and their legal team stand ready to shed light on the broader implications of utility negligence and the urgent need for corporate accountability.
