LADWP Clears Initial Blame in Devastating Palisades Fire

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) was cleared of initial blame in the Palisades Fire, despite complaints alleging its power lines sparked spot fires after the blaze began. Ongoing investigations indicate no direct link to LADWP's equipment. Lawsuits around water management persist.

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) has stated that its equipment was not responsible for the initial outbreak of the Palisades Fire, despite new complaints suggesting that its power lines may have sparked spot fires feeding the blaze.

The fire, which began on January 7, has been scrutinized intensely, with accusations surfacing against LADWP for its alleged role in sparking additional fires hours after the main blaze erupted. However, ongoing investigations by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and other authorities found no evidence linking LADWP's lines to the fire's origin.

LADWP continues to face legal challenges, particularly regarding its management of water supplies during the firefighting efforts. In a related case, Southern California Edison is being sued over claims that its equipment ignited another fire nearby.

(With inputs from agencies.)