Companies to pay $4 million for 2020 El Dorado Fire sparked by gender reveal

An Ohio-based smoke bomb designer and importer, along with two other companies, have agreed to pay more than $4 million to the United States government for costs and damages stemming from the 2020 El Dorado Fire[1]. The fire was ignited during a gender reveal event[1].

The El Dorado Fire holds particular significance for Big Bear Valley residents, many of whom followed the 2020 blaze closely and depend on the surrounding mountain landscapes for hiking, camping, and year-round tourism.

The $4 million settlement represents the federal government's effort to recover suppression costs and other damages tied to the incident[1]. It is not yet clear from available information whether the settling companies admitted liability as part of the agreement or whether the settlement was reached on a no-admission basis — a key detail that Big Bear News was unable to confirm at press time.

Residents with questions about fire safety regulations, smoke-producing devices, or the ongoing recovery of affected forest land are encouraged to contact their local U.S. Forest Service ranger district. The settlement serves as a reminder of how quickly a single ignition source can reshape life across the mountain region.

Editor's note: This story will be updated when statements from the settling companies become available.