California Wildfire Taskforce
This page will be continuously modified to reflect updated statistics and Taskforce initiatives.
Milberg Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman (“Milberg”) has assembled its California Wildfire Taskforce to investigate the devastating surge of destructive wildfires across the Golden State.
Since the fires began on January 7, 2025, at least ten California residents have tragically lost their lives with well over 100,000 residents evacuating the greater Southern California area. At least five separate wildfires across Los Angeles have resulted in over 40,000 acres of scorched land, burned structures, destroyed businesses, and property losses.
As the colder California months precipitate Santa Ana winds, several fires remain uncontained, still raging across the greater Los Angeles area at the time of this publication.
Palisades Fire
The first of many, the Palisades Fire started on Tuesday morning (1/7/25) originating as a brush fire that “spiraled out of control” as a result of high wind speeds. According to the Cal Fire website – offered by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection – the Palisades Fire spans over 20,000 acres at a containment rate of 19%.
This fire has contributed to the greatest number of local evacuations, spanning over 30 square miles and destroying hundreds of homes and structures.
Eaton Fire
In northern Los Angeles County, that same Tuesday evening (1/7/25), the Eaton Fire led to multiple deaths, at least one thousand destroyed structures, and over 20 square miles burned. According to Cal Fire, the Eaton Fire spans across 14,000+ acres at a containment rate of 45%.
The Eaton and Palisades Fires remain the two largest and most destructive uncontained wildfires at this time.
Hurst Fire
The Hurst Fire also began on Tuesday evening (1/7/25), prompting additional evacuations through the night and into Wednesday morning. According to Cal Fire, the Hurst Fire spans nearly 800 acres at a containment rate of 97%.
Lidia Fire
The Lidia Fire erupted on Wednesday (1/8/25) and, according to Cal Fire, has been fully contained, despite blazing across nearly 400 acres.
Kenneth Fire
In the Ventura area of Los Angeles, the Kenneth Fire broke out on Thursday (1/9/25), prompting a new wave of evacuation orders. According to Cal Fire, the Kenneth Fire spans across nearly one thousand acres and has been fully contained.
Since last Tuesday, several other wildfires – including Woodley, Tyler, and Sunset – emerged in surrounding areas but have since been fully contained. These fires were smaller in size compared to those listed above, spanning only dozens of acres, with evacuation orders gradually being lifted as their containment rates reach 100%.
Beyond fire destruction, pollution from wildfire smoke can rise 14 miles into the air and rapidly disperse dangerous toxins far beyond official evacuation zones, prompting the Los Angeles Unified School District to close all buildings this week.
Milberg Taskforce Investigation
Milberg is investigating the cause of these wildfires and is working to assist California residents – including individuals, homeowners, and business owners – in understanding their legal rights.
Taskforce members of the Milberg team will include Senior Partners Marc Grossman, Greg Coleman, Gary Klinger, James DeMay, and John Restaino; Partners Alex Straus and Vince Carnevale; and Senior Counsel Melissa Sims.
Justice demands that those who contribute to this crisis bear responsibility for its catastrophic consequences.
Marc Grossman, Senior Partner
Various organizations are offering immediate assistance, including meals and housing, to California residents; visit the California Fire Foundation, Red Cross, World Central Kitchen, or Airbnb websites to learn more.
To learn more about Milberg’s ongoing investigation into the California wildfires, please contact us today.
