Oregon jury awards 16 Santiam wildfire survivors eye-popping $305M

An Oregon jury awarded $305 million to 16 survivors of the 2020 Santiam Canyon wildfires on February 25th, marking the largest award to date in the class action lawsuit against PacifiCorp. This brings the total awarded to plaintiffs to over $1 billion, following a 2023 verdict that found PacifiCorp grossly negligent and reckless in causing four of the 2020 Labor Day Fires. Fifteen trials have been completed, with 167 more scheduled through 2027 for the 1,500 people impacted by the fires. This particular verdict was unusually high, with nine survivors or their estates receiving $19 million each and four minors averaging $5 million each.

PacifiCorp, owned by Berkshire Hathaway, has appealed the 2023 verdict and maintains its innocence, citing an Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) report that initially placed blame on the Beachie Creek Fire. However, the ODF report was criticized for failing to interview key eyewitnesses and investigate certain power line ignitions. PacifiCorp argues that the verdict is “irresponsible” and continues to challenge the awards.

The outcome of PacifiCorp’s appeal, heard by the Oregon Court of Appeals on February 4th, is expected in the coming months. If the appeal fails, the company could face further appeals to the Oregon Supreme Court, ultimately potentially leading to settlements or payouts to the fire victims who have been waiting years for compensation.

(Source：Salem Statesman Journal)