Manufacturers Settle for $4 Million After Gender Reveal Sparks Deadly California Wildfire
A 2020 gender reveal party in California led to a devastating wildfire after a pyrotechnic device ignited dry grass, resulting in the death of firefighter Charles Morton. The fire, known as the El Dorado Fire, burned nearly 23,000 acres over two months. The couple responsible for the event pleaded guilty to criminal charges and were ordered to pay restitution. Recently, three companies involved in the design, import, and marketing of the smoke bomb used at the party agreed to a $4 million settlement with the U.S. government. This settlement covers the costs incurred by the U.S. Forest Service in fighting the fire and the damage to federal land. The companies were accused of failing to properly label the smoke bombs and warn consumers of their fire risks, despite knowing the dangers. 
