A massive legal battle has been ignited over the catastrophic Dixie Fire, which ravaged Northern California in July 2021. A group of plaintiffs, represented by their guardians ad litem, have filed a complaint against PG&E Corporation and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco on December 16, 2024. The lawsuit alleges that PG&E's negligence led to one of the largest wildfires in California's history.
The plaintiffs, including minors Jultyann Randolph Richard Meza, Hazely Christina Nicole Meza, Elizabeth Autumn Rose Raynard, Hunter Clayton Smith, Hailey Millanes, and Heidi Millanes through their guardians ad litem Christina Lynne Meza, Windy Raynard, and Molly Millanes respectively, accuse PG&E of failing to maintain its electrical infrastructure adequately. According to the complaint, the Dixie Fire began when sparks from PG&E’s power lines ignited surrounding vegetation. The fire rapidly spread across multiple counties including Plumas and Butte Counties. "Plaintiffs are homeowners, renters, business owners... whose property and lives were literally and figuratively burned to the ground by the Dixie Fire," states the complaint.
The lawsuit claims that PG&E had prior knowledge of risks associated with its equipment due to a history of causing devastating wildfires such as the 2018 Camp Fire. Despite this awareness, PG&E allegedly failed to take necessary precautions like maintaining proper vegetation clearance around power lines or promptly de-energizing lines during high-risk conditions. The plaintiffs argue that these failures were a substantial factor in causing extensive damages including destruction of property and emotional distress.
In seeking justice for their losses, the plaintiffs are demanding compensation for various damages caused by the fire. They seek general and special damages for loss of property use and enjoyment as well as punitive damages aimed at punishing PG&E’s alleged prioritization of profits over safety. Additionally, they request recovery for attorney fees under applicable laws due to their significant financial burden resulting from this disaster.
Representing the plaintiffs are attorneys Mark Fleming and Vinh To from Singleton Schreiber LLP. The case is being overseen by Judge William Alsup under Case No.: CGC-24-620683.