Portland, Oregon — A Multnomah County jury has awarded approximately $50 million to ten survivors of the devastating Labor Day wildfires that swept across Oregon in 2020, marking a significant legal victory against PacifiCorp, an electric utility company. This ruling adds to a series of verdicts that have collectively imposed more than $385 million in damages on the company, stemming from its alleged negligence during extreme fire conditions.
The recent jury decision follows a 2023 class-action verdict that determined PacifiCorp failed to adequately shut off power, which contributed to the outbreak of four major wildfires. Plaintiffs’ attorney Matthew Preusch commented on the repeated jury findings, stating that the emotional toll and the destruction of property caused by the wildfires resonated deeply with jurors. He emphasized that it is crucial for PacifiCorp to take responsibility and compensate all survivors fairly.
Among those affected are Wanda and Bill Ford, both in their 80s, who lost their home to the Echo Mountain fire. The couple spent years living in motels after their displacement. Other plaintiffs reported losing family cabins, timberland, cherished personal belongings, and the ashes of deceased loved ones.
In response to the verdict, PacifiCorp stated it has reached settlements on over 2,000 wildfire-related claims since the incidents occurred in 2020. The company described these settlements as the result of fruitful negotiations aimed at offering compensation to help affected individuals recover and rebuild their lives. PacifiCorp’s spokesperson noted that the company remains focused on resolving reasonable outstanding claims.
Despite the financial penalties, PacifiCorp has appealed the 2023 ruling and has sought to challenge its liability. The company cited a recent report from the Oregon Department of Forestry claiming that its power lines were not responsible for igniting major fires in Santiam Canyon.
Looking ahead, additional legal proceedings loom for PacifiCorp, as at least five jury trials related to wildfire claims are set to commence later this year. The ongoing litigation underscores the challenges the company faces in navigating its responsibility for the catastrophic wildfires, which have left lasting scars on the lives of many Oregonians.
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