Judge postpones proceedings in Yarnell wrongful death case

PHOENIX (AP) - The judge presiding over a wrongful-death lawsuit stemming from the 2013 Yarnell Hill Fire is giving the sides additional time they requested to try to reach a possible settlement.

The Daily Courier in Prescott reports that U.S. District Judge John Tuchi last week extended his previous order postponing proceedings in the case.

A dozen Granite Mountain Hotshots' families sued Arizona public agencies last year, seeking a definitive answer on what caused the deaths of 19 members of the crew. The lawsuit also seeks damages for funeral costs, pain and suffering, and lost income.

The lawyers have said settlement talks have been complicated by a separate but related case that imposed fines and citations on the state Forestry Division.

Tucci ordered attorneys to submit a status report by July 6.