Southern California Edison (SCE) reported finding equipment irregularities near the origin point of the devastating Eaton Fire that killed 17 people and destroyed over 9,400 structures in Altadena, California last month.
During testing on January 19, SCE technicians observed small white flashes on high-voltage transmission lines when restoring power - indicating abnormal system function. These flashes appeared similar to those captured on video moments before the fire ignited on January 7.
Pedro J. Pizarro, CEO of Edison International, stated that while these findings are part of their ongoing investigation, they have not conclusively determined if faulty equipment sparked the blaze. "While we do not yet know what caused the Eaton wildfire, SCE is exploring every possibility, including the possibility that SCE's equipment was involved," Pizarro said.
The utility is examining multiple factors, including electrical faults detected several miles from the fire's origin point. They are also investigating whether an inactive transmission line may have become energized by nearby equipment.
On the day of the fire, winds reached approximately 100 mph in the area. While SCE cut power to some distribution circuits as a preventive measure, the high-voltage transmission lines near Altadena remained energized.
The investigation's outcome could have major implications for victim compensation, with financial losses estimated up to $10 billion. Edison's stock has dropped over one-third of its value since the fire began.
In a separate filing, SCE also reported their equipment may be linked to the Hurst Fire, which burned 800 acres in Sylmar on the same day.
The official cause determination may take months to complete. If SCE is found responsible, it could face substantial liability and potential changes to its operations as California's second-largest investor-owned utility.