The Los Angeles County Fire Department on Tuesday released initial and supplemental investigative reports identifying the origin and cause of the deadly Eaton Fire, which started on Jan. 7, 2025.

The Eaton Fire claimed 19 lives and destroyed or damaged more than 9,000 homes and businesses.

“The Eaton Fire was sparked by an electrical event at the Southern California Edison transmission towers,” the report stated. The towers’ location is redacted; however, officials noted that they are located in Eaton Canyon.

“Video evidence collected by the Eaton Fire Investigation team revealed two electrical arcing events that occurred in quick succession, leading to an unknown burning material falling from the SCE tower’s location into the dry receptive fuel bed below,” the report said.

“The fuel bed ignited approximately twelve seconds after the burning material was seen falling from the arcing event. The Eaton Fire rapidly developed into a conflagration engulfing the areas of the San Gabriel Mountains, Altadena, Pasadena, Sierra Madre, and La Cañada Flintridge. It was fully contained 24 days later, on Jan. 31, 2025.”

Under California Public Utilities Code, Southern California Edison is required to maintain and operate its electrical lines and equipment in a manner that minimizes the risk of catastrophic wildfires, officials noted.

“I recognize that no report or investigation into the Eaton Fire can ease the deep pain and tragedy our residents have endured,” Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone said in a statement. “While the cause has been determined, our focus remains on helping residents rebuild their homes and livelihoods, and ensuring lessons learned drive meaningful and impactful change in memory of the 19 lives lost.”

The findings come as mounting evidence has pointed to Southern California Edison equipment as the source of the blaze.

A video released in June, captured by cameras at the Gerrish Swim & Tennis Club in Pasadena, shows two bright flashes of light at 6:11 p.m. on Jan. 7, 2025, in the area of an Edison transmission tower carrying an idle, decades-old power line.

Multiple lawsuits have been filed on behalf of Eaton Fire victims alleging equipment from the power company sparked the deadly wildfire. (Source: KTLA)

Story Date: August 17, 2026