On May 22, 2024, a devastating fire erupted in Willits, California, allegedly due to faulty equipment maintained by a major utility company. This incident has led to a significant legal battle as Patricia J. Hart and several other plaintiffs have filed a lawsuit against PG&E Corporation and Pacific Gas & Electric Company. The complaint was filed on March 20, 2025, in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco.
The plaintiffs, represented by Abbey, Weitzenberg, Warren & Emery P.C., claim that the defendants' negligence resulted in substantial personal injuries and property damage. The lawsuit details multiple causes of action including negligence, inverse condemnation, public nuisance, private nuisance, premises liability, trespass, violation of Health & Safety Code Section 13007, and negligent infliction of emotional distress. The plaintiffs argue that PG&E failed to maintain their equipment properly and did not adhere to statutory safety standards which directly led to the fire.
According to the complaint, PG&E's actions or lack thereof were not only negligent but also reckless. "This fire was a direct and legal result of the negligence...of DEFENDANTS," states the filing. It further accuses PG&E of failing to trim vegetation near power lines adequately and not de-energizing power lines during fire-prone conditions. These failures are claimed to have caused extensive damage to both real and personal property owned by the plaintiffs.
The plaintiffs are seeking various forms of relief from the court. They demand compensation for repair or replacement of damaged property, loss of use and enjoyment of their properties, lost wages or business profits due to displacement caused by the fire. Additionally, they seek punitive damages aimed at punishing PG&E for what they describe as "despicable conduct" with conscious disregard for safety.
Furthermore, they request an injunction requiring PG&E to comply with existing safety regulations to prevent future incidents. The case underscores ongoing concerns about utility companies' responsibilities in preventing wildfires through proper maintenance and operational practices.
Representing the plaintiffs are attorneys Brendan M. Kunkle and Michael D. Green from Abbey Weitzenberg Warren & Emery P.C., while Judge Sahar Enayati is presiding over this matter under Case ID CGC-25-623498.