Texas files suit vs electric company over Smokehouse Creek record-breaking fire
Texas has filed a civil lawsuit against Xcel Energy over the 2024 Smokehouse Creek fire in the Panhandle, which killed three people, destroyed more than 15,000 head of cattle, and burned over one million acres. The complaint alleges that poorly maintained electric equipment caused or contributed to the largest wildfire in Texas history and seeks monetary damages, reimbursement of firefighting costs, and court-ordered safety measures. The case, filed by the Texas Attorney General’s Office, cites extensive property, agricultural, and environmental losses and remains pending as the court sets a schedule for responses and evidence.