Big Oil could face murder charges over extreme-heat deaths

Advocates push for criminal prosecution of fossil fuel companies, citing over 400 heat-related deaths in Arizona.

In short:

The consumer advocacy nonprofit Public Citizen released a model prosecution memo urging criminal charges against major oil companies for heat-related deaths.
The memo targets nine companies, arguing their actions contribute to climate change and extreme weather.
Legal experts say 403 deaths from Maricopa County's heat wave meet criteria for reckless manslaughter or second-degree murder.

Key quote:

"These climate disasters are the specific result of decisions and actions that were made by particular actors (...)These heat deaths might be more than just tragedies, but actually crimes."

— Aaron Regunberg, senior policy counsel, Public Citizen and co-author of the memo.

Why this matters:

Extreme heat waves are becoming deadlier due to climate change driven by fossil fuel emissions. The push for legal action highlights a growing frustration among environmental and health advocates who argue that fossil fuel companies have long known about the impacts of their activities on the climate.

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