PG&E Criminally Liable For Deadly Zogg Fire In Shasta County, Prosecutors Say
SHASTA COUNTY (CBS13) – Prosecutors said they have determined Pacific Gas and Electric criminally liable for causing the Zogg Fire, which killed four people and destroyed several homes in Shasta County in 2020.
Shasta County District Attorney Stephanie Bridgett said charges would be filed before the anniversary of the Zogg Fire–which started on September 27—but the nature and grade of the charges have not yet been officially decided on.
"I hope this information brings awareness to the importance of fire prevention during the current drought and severe wildfire season," Bridgett said.
In March, Cal Fire announced that it determined the fire was sparked by PG&E transmission lines coming in contact with a tree just north of the community of Igo. The agency then forwarded the investigation to the Shasta County District Attorney's Office.
In total, 204 structures were destroyed, four people were killed, and one person suffered a non-life-threatening injury as a result of the fire. A total of 56,338 acres were burned.
DA Bridgett said wildlife was also killed in the fire.
PG&E released a statement on the matter, which reads:
"The loss of life and devastation in the communities impacted by the 2020 Zogg Fire is heartbreaking, and we recognize that nothing can heal the hearts of those who have lost so much. We thank the courageous first responders who saved lives, protected property and worked to contain and put out the fire last year.
The company already has resolved civil claims with Shasta County and continues to reach settlements with individual victims and their families impacted by the Zogg Fire in an effort to make it right. We do not, however, agree with the District Attorney's conclusion that criminal charges are warranted given the facts of this case.
We remain committed to doing everything we can to keep our customers and communities safe."