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4mo ago

Southern California Edison Removes Key Tower in Eaton Fire Investigation

Tower 208, suspected of sparking the devastating January wildfire, has been dismantled and transported for forensic analysis as investigations continue.

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On Wednesday, May 7,2025, Southern California Edison crews air lifted out the top half of the transmission line suspected of sparking the Eaton fire. The tower, 208, is being removed in order to be preserved as evidence. (Photo by Dean Musgrove, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Overview

  • Southern California Edison dismantled and airlifted Tower 208, a dormant transmission tower believed to have played a role in the Eaton Fire, for detailed testing and evidence preservation.
  • The Eaton Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, destroyed over 9,000 structures, caused 18 fatalities, and remains one of California's most destructive wildfires.
  • Investigators are examining whether electromagnetic induction from a nearby active line reenergized the idle tower, potentially sparking the blaze.
  • State, county, and internal Edison investigations, alongside over 130 lawsuits, are ongoing to determine liability and assess the role of utility equipment in the fire.
  • The dismantled tower and related components have been transported to a facility in Irwindale, where representatives from all stakeholders will inspect the equipment for further analysis.