A California volunteer firefighter who was electrocuted last September while battling a wildland fire has filed suit against Pacific Gas & Electric.
Firefighter Ben Hakala, 36, of the Bodega Volunteer Fire Department was working in the area of a downed power line at a 100 acre fire on September 25, 2010. It is believed that the same 12,000 volt line started the fire and electrocuted Hakala. He was in critical condition following the incident, and continues to recover from extensive injuries.
The suit alleges that the high-tension line was known problem that PG&E should have taken extra precautions for. Property owners who suffered losses from the fire have also filed claims against PG&E seeking reimbursement.