A trial date has been set for a civil lawsuit against the City of Chico, filed by Kristopher Vetter, who is alleging negligence and emotional distress following a fire at the Chico Genesis Pallet Shelter that destroyed his belongings in August 2024. Vetter contends that the shelter was supposed to provide a safe environment, a promise he believes was not fulfilled.
The fire, which occurred on August 5, 2024, has left Vetter seeking financial compensation for his losses and legal recourse. He expressed frustration over the lack of support after the incident, stating that he faced ridicule and received no assistance from the city.
According to the Chico Fire Department, the fire was determined to be intentionally set. Vetter claims that the arsonist was able to access the property due to a damaged fence, which had numerous work orders indicating the need for repair and the installation of barbed wire to prevent unauthorized entry.
Vetter also states that the incident has worsened his PTSD and anxiety, issues he believes the shelter failed to adequately address. He noted that his intake forms documented his mental health challenges and argued that the shelter had a responsibility to accommodate individuals with such needs.
Attempts by Action News Now reporter Sade Pullen to obtain comments from the shelter’s executive director, Chico City Manager Mark Sorenson, and Mayor Kasey Reynolds were met with silence due to the ongoing litigation. Councilmember Addison Winslow also refrained from commenting but emphasized a commitment to enhancing safety measures within city facilities.
The fire incident resulted in the destruction of two shelters and damage to a third, though officials reported no injuries.
