Arson Investigation Questions

To perform a proper arson investigation, there are certain questions all investigators need to know. At Investigative Resource Center, we have years of experience handling arson cases and leading investigations that find answers. If you suspect the involvement of arson in a fire, please reach out to our investigative office today.

Get Arson Investigation

When you reach out, we will answer any questions or concerns you might have regarding the situation. The number for our office is (732) 805-3985. During the call, we can provide you with a free, no-obligation consultation to go over your potential case. So please, do not hesitate to reach out to us for more information about how we can help you.

Expert Investigators of Arson

When it comes to investigating a potential arson fire, it is not only important to ask the right questions, but who to ask them too. Fire fighters are almost always the first on the scene. So seeking them out should be a priority, which we do. And we will look for any potential leads when it comes to uncovering whether or not we believe it was arson. Like why some people may commit arson and how this sort of investigation falls under our umbrella. As well as how an arson investigation begins. Here are some important questions we ask during an arson investigation.

What was the color of the smoke?

Different substances will produce different color smokes. So the color will indicate what exactly is burning, which then leads to finding out whether or not that substance was in the structure previously. One example is if a wood home produces a thick, black smoke then gasoline is potential. However, gasoline is an accelerant and typically not in the home. Finding out facts like that can easily dismiss an arson case or not.

Were there hydrants, standpipes, alarm systems or sprinkler systems not working?

If the answer to this question is yes, then we will find out if any damage is there. Because that means there could be potential tampering with the system to allow the fire to burn uncontrollably.

What was the condition of the doors and windows?

When you see signs of forced entry it can indicate an actual break and enter or indicate a staged scene. Also, when doors and windows are propped open that could mean there was an attempt to ventilate the building and allow for the fire to spread throughout the structure. And conversely, doors and windows that needed forcing open might indicate an attempt to slow down the fire fighters from watering down the fire.

Was the fire burning in a strange way?

Any rapid spreading fire leads to the hypothesis of accelerants. Are these accelerants on purpose or not is another question, but when it spreads fast there is a reason. Also, multiple points of origin, flashes and explosions can also indicate accelerants or the use of incendiary devices.

Did fire fighters recognize anyone at the scene?

Now we are getting to crackpot theories in a way, but it is possible that fire fighters may see the same person in the crowd at several fires. Like with most crimes, arsonists like to look on with their work. They may even help the firefighters. If a familiar face is found at several fire, then every arson investigation needs to find him or her and ask questions.

Were any notable items moved before the fire?

When there are items missing, this is an indication that they may have been moved before the start of the fire. So, in a nutshell, these removed items indicate that the fire was planned. Some of these items may be sentimental items, like baby pictures, valuables, and important records. When there is evidence of pre-planning a fire, then that is pretty damning proof of the intent to commit arson.