Overview
Paradise, California Camp Fire
One of the deadliest wildfires in U.S. history, claiming 85 lives and burning over 150,000 Acres. Widespread destruction across Northern California communities
Get Legal Help TodayThe Facts of the Camp Fire
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The fire burned 153,336 acres and destroyed 18,804 structures. Most of the structures were destroyed in the first two days. The fire blazed so quickly that residents were forced to flee, sometimes on foot with children in their arms because the roads were jammed with traffic.
One of the things that made the camp fire so devastating is that this fire was not a “forest fire” in the classic sense. This California Wildfire blew right through the city of paradise, as well as the towns of Magalia, Centerville, Concow, Pulga, Butte Creek Canyon, Berry Creek and Yankee Hill. It also threatened the towns of Butte Valley, Chico, Forest Ranch, Helltown, Inskip, Oroville, and Stirling City.
Cause of the Camp Fire
- The final cause is under investigation by CAL FIRE, but preliminary reports indicate that it was caused by a downed or failed PG&E transmission line.
- The incident raised serious concerns about infrastructure safety, utility company responsibility, and wildfire prevention measures. Ongoing investigations and legal actions have focused on determining accountability and preventing similar disasters in the future.
- This equipment failure led to sparks that ignited the surrounding dry vegetation, allowing the fire to spread rapidly across the region. Combined with extreme weather conditions and highly flammable terrain, the fire quickly grew out of control, devastating entire communities in a matter of hours.
Camp Fire Lawsuit Against PG&E
Early evidence points to a failure of PG&E equipment when power lines arced, igniting tinder-dry grasses. The fire started along Camp Creek Road, which gave the fire its name. Lawsuits in the case are based on the negligence of PG&E to properly maintain equipment and to turn off power to those lines when winds and conditions exceeded acceptable levels.
Years of experience in fire litigation have allowed our attorneys to develop strong relationships with qualified fire experts who can help achieve the very best results for your case. If you’ve sustained damages as a result of a fire, in California or another state, the Singleton Schreiber team is here to inform you of your legal options and ensure your interests are represented.
Legal Assistance
If you or a loved one were affected by the Camp Fire, contact an experienced attorney at Singleton Schreiber to learn about the Camp Fire compensation and to understand your legal options.
Years of experience in fire litigation have allowed our attorneys to develop strong relationships with qualified fire experts who can help achieve the very best results for your case. If you’ve sustained damages as a result of a fire, in California or another state, the Singleton Schreiber team is here to inform you of your legal options and ensure your interests are represented.
PG&E and the Camp Fire
An article in the San Francisco Chronicle, December 7, 2018, said:
“Authorities had removed failed wire sections and the jumper extension, the lawsuit says. A spokesman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire, declined to comment.”
“PG&E has also reported another part of its equipment malfunctioned shortly after the fire began, a revelation that has come under scrutiny as Cal Fire investigates a possible second start to the Camp Fire.”
Within a couple of days of the fire starting, stories came out in the press that there were reports from PG&E of a downed or failed transmission line. The report was submitted minutes before the fire started and well before anyone was able to respond.
PG&E has been linked to multiple fires since the early 2000s. A June 2018 CAL FIRE report found its equipment caused 12 Northern California wildfires in October, killing 18 people and destroying thousands of structures. Just four months later, the deadliest fire in state history claimed 85 lives, with many still missing. These events raised serious concerns about infrastructure safety, corporate accountability, and the urgent need for stronger wildfire prevention measures across the region.
Recovery from the Camp Fire
You can take steps toward recovery. This event was declared a state and national disaster, making millions available to residents who’ve lost everything.
Your Home: Rebuilding will take time. Foundations should be inspected, as intense heat can crack concrete and melt roads. Burned materials, appliances, and vehicles may release toxins, so areas should be checked. With vegetation gone, landslides and flooding are more likely, making professional evaluation important.
Your Family: Such events can cause nightmares, behavioral issues in children, and depression in adults. Free mental health resources are available. Smoke exposure can also impact health, so any unusual symptoms should be checked promptly.
Your Financial Life: Lawsuits have been filed against PG&E, alleging failure to maintain equipment led to the Camp Fire. While cases may take time, joining a lawsuit can help ensure fair compensation.
