NCJ Number
93935
Date Published
1984
Length
9 pages
Annotation
Fire and arson investigators must carefully plan and prepare their investigations, use standard methods of investigation, and openly communicate with the representatives of the many agencies involved in investigations of deaths resulting from fires.
Abstract
The investigator must understand the established manners of death: natural, accidental, homicidal, and suicide. Security should be the first priority from the moment the investigator arrives on the scene. After the walk-through is completed, the pathologist should be summoned. Photographs, diagram sketches and measurements should be made, if possible, before any examination or movement of the body. Depending on the facilities available, the autopsy and the fire scene investigation may become two separate and simultaneous investigations. Identification of the victim must rest on positive identification. The cause, manner, and time of death must be established. The fire scene investigator must thoroughly document the scene and should use the proper aids to collect evidence. Interviews and statements from witnesses and from a neighborhood canvass should indicate the direction the further investigation should follow. A designated liaison officer should handle contacts with other interested parties such as the media and the general public. Five references are listed.