Forensic Arson Investigation Techniques
According to the United States Fire Administration, arson is the number one cause of fires in the United States. Proper arson investigation techniques are vital to investigating this violent crime.
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Examine the Scene from the Outside In
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The investigation begins in the areas that suffered the least damage, working outward to the areas of heaviest damage. The area of heaviest damage is most likely the point of origin.
Evaluate Fire Patterns
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Investigators evaluate fire patterns, such as charring and melting, and consider basic principles of fire behavior in order to determine the point of origin and understand how the fire progressed.
Classify the Fire
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The fire is classified as one of the following: natural, such as the result of lightning; accidental; incendiary (intentional); or unable to be identified.
Collect Evidence
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Evidence is carefully collected and placed in vapor-tight containers. Samples of burn materials around the point of origin are tested for accelerants. The scene is photographed and videotaped.
Interview Witnesses
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Witnesses must be identified and interviewed right away. Key witnesses may include firefighters, eyewitnesses, property owners, spectators, and neighbors.
Look for Evidence of Motive
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Investigators must look for evidence of motive, such as over-insurance, change of character in the neighborhood, physical condition of the property and the owner's desire to move from the area.
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