Franklin Fire Devastates Malibu Area Update and Legal Guidance from CaseyGerry Attorneys
The fire attorneys at CaseyGerry are closely monitoring the ongoing devastation of the Franklin Fire, which has scorched over 4,000 acres in the Malibu area of Los Angeles.
Fire Details and Impact
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), the Franklin Fire was first reported at 10:50 PM on Monday, December 8, 2024, between South Malibu Canyon Road and the Station Boundary. By late Tuesday afternoon, the fire had rapidly spread to 3,049 acres, driven by arid conditions, low humidity, and high winds gusting up to 40 mph. As of Thursday, December 12, 2024, the fire had consumed 4,089 acres, destroyed nine structures, and damaged six others. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Firefighters are working tirelessly to control the blaze, and while the winds have begun to subside, the fire remains only 7% contained.
Evacuation Orders and Shelter-in-Place
Thousands of residents in the affected areas remain under evacuation orders, evacuation warnings, and shelter-in-place orders. This includes the Pepperdine University campus, which is located near where the fire began. Currently, 18,000 people and more than 8,000 structures are under threat.
To ensure safety, Pepperdine University issued a shelter-in-place order, and local authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely. Additionally, utility company, Southern California Edisons shut off power to many residents and facilities in the area to prevent further hazards.
Fire Cause and Investigations
Fire officials are actively investigating the cause of the Franklin Fire, with many speculating that arson could be a factor. According to CalFIRE, approximately 95% of wildfires are caused by human activity. In 2023 alone, over 7,000 wildfires were sparked by human actions. While most of these fires were accidental, it’s important to note that only 10% of wildfires are intentionally set through arson.
Legal Support for Victims of the Franklin Fire
The CaseyGerry Fire Attorneys are continuing to monitor the situation and provide support to individuals and families affected by wildfires like the Franklin Fire. Our experienced fire team has helped thousands of wildfire victims recover damages and navigate the complex legal landscape.
If you or someone you know has been affected by the Franklin Fire, or any other wildfire, our attorneys are here to help. To learn more about our fire practice, call us at (619) 238-1811 or visit our website at https://caseygerry.com/.
