Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Elderly Victims Sue Edison Over Eaton Fire Losses as Utility Faces Scrutiny From Past Wildfire Settlements

By ANDRÈ COLEMAN, Managing Editor

A group of elderly victims and their families has filed suit against Southern California Edison, alleging the utility’s negligence caused the devastating Eaton Fire and left them homeless, traumatized, and in failing health.

The lawsuit, filed by global litigation firm Quinn Emanuel, represents 25 victims ranging in age from 70 to 90. The complaint accuses Edison of being “grossly negligent” and acting with “reckless disregard for public safety.”

“Exposure to toxic smoke and ash can cause a variety of health conditions, including respiratory problems, asthma exacerbation, heart attacks, and strokes, as well as lung cancer and damage to cognitive functions,” according to the lawsuit. “These significant health risks can have long-term impacts on human health.”

The Eaton Fire destroyed over 9,000 structures, burning 14,000 acres and forcing the evacuation of over 33,000 people in Altadena and in Pasadena. The fire also destroyed historic sites like the Eaton Canyon Nature Center and the Altadena Community Church, and impacted Pasadena’s drinking water system.

The plaintiffs include David Slater, an 82-year-old Vietnam veteran with dementia, failed to evacuate and was later found wandering the streets covered in ash after inhaling smoke. His home and senior center were destroyed, and relatives say the trauma worsened his dementia to the point he can no longer speak coherently.

Clarence Martin, 76, has also joined the lawsuit.

Martin lost the Altadena home he had remodeled into what he called his “masterpiece.” The fire erased decades of memories with his late wife, including photos, artwork, and keepsakes. His daughter and granddaughter were also displaced. Martin, who has diabetes, has seen his health decline.

Susan and Darrell Carr lost their Altadena home, which they considered their final connection to their late son Justin, who died suddenly at 16. The fire consumed Justin’s artwork, poems, and the Spanish Revival house the family had restored.

“These are not just property losses — they are profound personal tragedies,” the lawsuit says.

Edison already faces multiple lawsuits over the blaze, which investigators linked to its equipment.

Edison is funding a compensation program and offering community workshops for victims of the fire. The utility faces lawsuits from the federal government and other entities for the fire’s cause. in Pasadena has also filed a lawsuit against Edison.

Quinn Emanuel, better known for representing corporations and institutions in high-stakes litigation, has taken on the case.