Press Release: Survivors and Utility Face Off After Oregon’s Catastrophic Santiam Fire
Kathleen Becherer, a 77-year-old resident who sought peace in the Santiam River Canyon, saw her dream turn to ashes during the devastating Santiam Fire in September 2020, which scorched 400,000 acres. The wildfires, Oregon’s deadliest in recorded history, resulted in five fatalities and caused immense destruction, costing the state hundreds of millions.
Survivors like Becherer, who spent weeks recovering from severe injuries, have shifted focus toward accountability. Many locals attribute the fire’s ignition to negligence by PacifiCorp, an electric utility under Berkshire Hathaway, which failed to implement preventive measures despite numerous state warnings. In a landmark 2023 trial, a jury found PacifiCorp grossly negligent and awarded approximately $100 million to affected residents, including Becherer.
However, the timeline for compensation is uncertain, as the utility has appealed the ruling, delaying relief for many victims, some of whom have passed away without receiving any funds. PacifiCorp has continued to downplay its responsibility, arguing climate-induced changes make it challenging to control fire risk.
Despite public anger and significant legal ramifications, PacifiCorp maintains its commitment to fire safety, having reportedly invested over $1 billion in upgrades since 2020. Yet, residents and lawmakers are increasingly concerned about the utility’s practices and profitability, as recent legislative proposals seek to limit liability for utility companies while others push for fire prevention funding.
This evolving situation has prompted a rare consensus among Oregon lawmakers from diverse political views, who are urging systemic changes in how utilities operate amidst exacerbating wildfire risks. Becherer’s story reflects the broader fight for accountability and improved safety measures in an era of increasing climate crises.
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