The Zogg Fire in Northern California last summer, which killed four people and destroyed more than 200 buildings, was caused by Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) distribution lines hit by falling tree branches, state officials said.

Zogg Fire

The wildfire in parts of Shasta and Tehama counties prompted the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) to seize PG&E electrical equipment as part of its investigation.

The probe determined the fire “was caused by a pine tree contacting electrical distribution lines” north of Igo, CA. The report was forwarded to the Shasta County District Attorney.

PG&E spokesperson James Noonan said an incident report filed with the California Public Utilities Commission noted one of its 12-Kv power lines was in the area...