U.S. Files Lawsuit Seeking Damages from Southern California Edison and Tree Service for 2020 Bobcat Fire in Angeles National Forest

The United States has lodged a complaint against Southern California Edison and its tree maintenance contractor, Utility Tree Service (UTS), alleging negligence in maintaining trees that came into contact with power lines, causing the Bobcat Fire. The wildfire, one of the largest ever recorded in Los Angeles County, burned over 114,000 acres, destroyed 171 structures, damaged 47 structures, and resulted in the evacuation of numerous residences. 

The complaint, filed in the United States District Court, states that the United States Forest Service incurred over $56 million in fire suppression costs and damages to property and natural resources exceeding $65 million.

The lawsuit alleges that SCE and UTS were responsible for the ignition of vegetation on a branch, which spread when it fell to the ground, causing the fire. The incident occurred on September 6, 2020, and more than 100 miles of trails and numerous campgrounds remain closed to the public. Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah Quist and Joseph W. Tursi of the Civil Division’s Complex and Defensive Litigation Section are handling the case.

By Anita Johnson-Brown

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