Historic Jewish temple sues SoCal Edison over devastating LA wildfire

Pasadena Jewish Temple alleges utility's negligence led to destruction of sanctuary, preschool and other buildings

Jan. 28, 2026 at 7:31pm

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A historic Jewish temple in Pasadena, California that was destroyed in the devastating Eaton wildfire has filed a lawsuit against electric company Southern California Edison, blaming the utility for sparking the blaze. The Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center alleges that Edison's failure to adhere to safety protocols directly led to the destruction of its sanctuary, preschool, and other buildings.

Why it matters

The lawsuit is one of hundreds facing SoCal Edison over the deadly Eaton wildfire that left 19 people dead and thousands of buildings destroyed. The loss of the Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center, which traces its roots back to 1921, has deeply impacted the congregation who have been without a physical place of worship for over a year.

The details

The Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center is suing SoCal Edison, claiming the utility's negligence and failure to follow safety protocols led to the Eaton wildfire that destroyed the historic house of worship. The temple's senior rabbi said the congregation has continued to gather and support one another, but the loss of their physical space has been deeply felt.

  • The Eaton wildfire occurred in 2026.
  • The Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center has been without a physical home for more than a year since the fire.

The players

Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center

A historic Jewish temple in Pasadena, California that traces its roots back to 1921 and was destroyed in the Eaton wildfire.

Southern California Edison (SoCal Edison)

An electric utility company that the Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center is suing, alleging the company's negligence and failure to follow safety protocols led to the Eaton wildfire that destroyed the temple.

Joshua Ratner

The senior rabbi of the Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center.

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What they’re saying

“Our congregation has been without a physical home for more than a year, at a time when our members had the deepest need for refuge and healing. While we've continued to gather and support one another, the loss is deeply felt.”

— Joshua Ratner, Senior Rabbi (Los Angeles Times)

What’s next

The judge will rule on whether the Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center's lawsuit against SoCal Edison can proceed.

The takeaway

This case highlights the devastating impact wildfires can have on historic and community institutions, as well as the ongoing legal battles between utilities and those affected by their alleged negligence in sparking deadly blazes.