Texas AG Opens Probe Into Xcel, Osmose Over 2024 Wildfires

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened a civil investigation into three utility companies whose equipment is suspected of sparking major wildfires in the Texas Panhandle last year. Civil investigative demand letters have been sent to Xcel Energy, its subsidiary Southwestern Public Service Co., and the contractor Osmose Utilities Services, seeking records on equipment maintenance, vegetation management and any prior fire-related claims. The inquiry focuses on the 2024 Smokehouse Creek and Windy Deuce fires, two of the most destructive blazes in recent state history. Investigators will examine whether alleged failures by the utilities—such as downed power lines or inadequate pole treatment—contributed to the ignition and rapid spread of the fires, which scorched vast areas of rangeland and forced widespread evacuations. The state Agriculture Commissioner announced a parallel review of the companies’ practices, underscoring mounting political pressure to assign responsibility as wildfire seasons lengthen. Depending on the findings, Paxton’s office could pursue civil penalties and seek restitution for property losses and firefighting costs.