Bay Briefing: The Camp fire was PG&E’s fault — now what? - SFChronicle.com

Bay Briefing: The Camp fire was PG&E’s fault — now what? - SFChronicle.com: Good morning, Bay Area. It’s Thursday, May 16, and PG&E has officially been found at fault for the deadly Camp Fire, a big project is taking shape in Santa Clara and we ask people what’s keeping them in the Bay Area. Here’s what you need to know to start your day. Cal Fire makes it official The deadliest wildfire in California history, which killed 85 people and wiped out almost an entire town of 27,000, was caused by PG&E power equipment , state officials have announced. PG&E admitted months ago this was a likely outcome, but the announcement by state fire investigators removes any doubt. Here’s what happens now: • The finding smooths the path for lawsuits that have piled up against the utility, including individual claims from Camp Fire victims. • Cal Fire did not release the full report on its probe into the blaze, because the case remains under criminal investigation by Butte County authorities. Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey said charges could include recklessly causing a fire or manslaughter. However, the investigation is still ongoing and Ramsey estimated it would be “weeks to months” before prosecutors decide if they have enough evidence to bring ch