PASADENA, Calif. — A major legal battle is unfolding in Southern California, where a coalition including KJT Law Group, former Los Angeles District Attorney Steve Cooley, and Parris Law Firm have initiated a mass tort lawsuit against Southern California Edison (SCE). The lawsuit asserts that SCE’s negligence contributed to the catastrophic Eaton Fire, which, since igniting on January 7, 2025, has destroyed over 7,000 structures and forced thousands from their homes in Altadena and Pasadena. The fire remains unchecked, with a confirmed loss of 16 lives and scorching through more than 14,000 acres.
The legal action aims to hold SCE accountable, amidst unconfirmed reports linking the fire’s origin to one of its power structures. These allegations are spearheaded by eyewitness accounts suggesting the fire started at such a facility in Altadena shortly after forecasts predicted strong winds, raising questions about the adequacy of SCE’s preventive measures.
Caspar Jivalagian, a founding partner of KJT Law Group and a Pasadena native, expressed his personal connection to the tragedy. “Watching my hometown suffer this unimaginable disaster is heart-wrenching,” Jivalagian said. “It compels us to seek answers and ensure such devastation is never repeated.”
The Eaton Fire’s ferocity was quickly apparent, as recounted by a local eyewitness. “It emerged at the mountain’s peak and descended rapidly, leaving no time to safeguard possessions,” the resident explained. “Most of our neighborhood is reduced to ashes, and the area just behind ours has barely two homes left standing.”
This disaster is among four significant blazes fueled by the Santa Ana winds across the Greater Los Angeles area. It occurs against a backdrop of mounting challenges for homeowners, including a wave of insurance companies exiting California’s market. Many residents found their fire insurance policies expiring at the end of 2024 without renewal options.
Jivalagian underlined the firm’s commitment to the community, emphasizing the non-financial motives behind their legal pursuit. “This fight is not about profit; it’s driven by our dedication to the people and our community members, regardless of their insurance status,” he asserted.
Since its inception in 2014, KJT Law Group has positioned itself as a defender of social justice, tackling various legal battles including personal injury, wrongful death, worker’s compensation, and employment law, always advocating for the underdog against larger corporate entities.
Headquartered in Los Angeles, their lawyers continue to work extensively throughout the Greater Los Angeles region, committing themselves to their clients and their community’s welfare.
For more information on KJT Law Group, they can be reached at their Glendale office or through their stated contact channels.
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