Gerald Singleton, Managing Partner at Singleton Schreiber in San Diego, was recently featured by KGW in their article, "Lawsuit Accuses Union Pacific of Igniting Rowena Fire Through Train Sparks," published on June 24, 2025.
This article details a lawsuit brought by two Wasco County residents, Ramon Garza Nino and Maria Carrera, filed in U.S. District Court in Portland, Oregon. The lawsuit alleges that the Rowena Fire, which burned nearly 3,700 acres, destroyed 56 homes, and impacted 90 total structures, resulted from sparks created by a passing Union Pacific Railroad train igniting dry brush. The complaint also alleges negligence on the part of Union Pacific, claiming the railroad failed to properly maintain a safe and clean area on and around its tracks, a risk underscored by previous incidents such as the Tunnel 5 Fire, which burned over 500 acres due to train sparks.
Mr. Singleton commented in the KGW report: "This appears to be yet another tragic example of preventable wildfire destruction linked to railroad operations. Families have lost their homes, livelihoods, and sense of security all because of corporate irresponsibility. We are determined to ensure the Wasco County community receives the justice it deserves."
Singleton Schreiber will hold an in-person and virtual Town Hall on June 26 in The Dalles, Oregon, to offer legal guidance to impacted community members.
