What specific electrical failure caused the deadly Eaton Fire?

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Sparks from an idle transmission tower ignited the deadly Eaton Fire

Sparks originating from an idle transmission tower owned by Southern California Edison (SCE) ignited dry vegetation, leading to the destructive Eaton Fire. The Los Angeles County Fire Department's 18-month investigation concluded that an electrical incident on a decommissioned SCE transmission tower was the direct cause. This tower, though out of service for decades, was still capable of receiving power and was situated near high-voltage lines.
Electrical Arcs Ejected Incandescent Particles

During the night of the fire, electrical arcs occurred within the idle transmission tower. These arcs ejected incandescent metal particles, which subsequently fell onto flammable patches of dry vegetation located at the base of the tower. This ignition of dry vegetation was the immediate trigger for the Eaton Fire.
Decommissioned Tower Remained Energised

The transmission tower in question had been out of service for several decades. Despite being decommissioned, it could still receive electrical power. Its proximity to active high-voltage lines meant that it remained a potential hazard, even without active transmission duties.
SCE Acknowledged Responsibility and Compensated Victims

Southern California Edison has acknowledged its potential role in the fire's origin. The company initiated a compensation fund for fire victims in the fall prior to the report's release, aiming to avoid protracted legal disputes. To date, SCE has disbursed over US$375 million to victims through its Wildfire Recovery Compensation Program.

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What specific electrical failure caused the deadly Eaton Fire?

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