What are the steps in an arson investigation?

What are the steps in an arson investigation?

The steps listed are: arriving at the scene, evaluating the scene, documenting the scene, processing evidence at the scene, and finally completing the investigation (National Institute of Justice 2009).

How do investigators deal with arson evidence?

Fire and arson investigators examine the physical attributes of a fire scene and identify and collect physical evidence from the scene. This evidence is then analyzed to help determine if the cause of the fire was accidental or deliberate. Improve ways to detect, analyze and identify accelerants, such as gasoline.

What is one important thing a first responder does before the arrival of an arson investigator?

What is one important thing a first responder does before the arrival of an arson investigator? Protect evidence. Put out the fire as quickly as possible.

What are the factors to be considered in collecting evidence samples for arson cases?

They include:

• Burn pattern: multiple origins or unusual origin location.
• Presence/absence, and/or condition of ignition key.
• Ignition lock/switch condition.
• Accelerants in unexpected location(s)
• Missing accessories, components, or personal property.
• Components that have been tampered with.
• Evidence of forced entry.

How should an investigator manage a fire scene?

The investigator should: Contact the incident commander, identify first responders and first-in firefighters, and arrange to document their observations either in writing or through recorded interviews. Determine who reported the fire. Secure a tape or transcript of the report if available.

What are the five components using a systematic approach with which fires are investigated?

as fire patterns, direct observations, measurements, documentation such as photography, evidence collection, testing, experimentation and witness interviews.

What is the proper procedure for collecting suspected arson evidence?

Arson evidence is usually collected in air-tight, clean metal cans. Only large quantities of dry powder should be collected and stored in plastic bags. Moist or wet evidence (blood, plants, etc.)

What are the two key criteria for investigating arson crime scenes?

The investigator should: Identify a distinct origin (location where the fire started) and an obvious fire cause (ignition source, first fuel ignited, and circumstances of the event that brought the two together).

How do you collect arson evidence?

What is the role of the investigator in fire scene investigation?

The investigator should meet with the incident commander and first responders to assess previous events and the current status of the fire scene, make introductions, identify essential personnel, and determine scene safety and integrity issues.

What are the three main components of a fire scene investigation?

In order for a fire to occur, three vital components must be present: a fuel source, an oxidant (O2) and a sufficient amount of energy in the form of heat. Together these make up the fire triangle. A fourth factor can also be described – a self-sustaining chemical chain reaction – to produce the fire tetrahedron.

How to evaluate the scene of an arson investigation?

Collect the evidence using the tools described in “evaluating the scene.” Be sure to collect samples from the suspected origin of the fire in case it is, in fact, an arson investigation. Also, the investigator needs to be careful not to contaminate the evidence by using sterile gloves, clean, unused containers, etc.

What is the National Institute of Justice’s guide for investigating arson?

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) created an online resource, titled “ A Guide for investigating Fire and Arson ;” a five step process that frames the procedures that law enforcement agencies follow in the case of arson.

How to prosecute arsonists?

In arson cases, successful prosecution hinges on the expertise of the investigator and his/her skill in interpreting the diagnostic signs of fire behavior at the scene. Observe carefully and use your observations to “get inside the head” of a possible arsonist. What could he have been thinking? How experienced is the arsonist?

What are the steps involved in investigating a fire?

A Guide for Investigating Fire and Arson 1 Arriving at the Fire and/or Arson Scene. First responders to a fire scene must assess and secure the scene and ensure that victims receive medical attention. 2 Evaluating the Scene. 3 Documenting the Scene. 4 Processing Evidence at the Scene. 5 Completing the Investigation.