NCJ Number
81185
Date Published
Unknown
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This videotape portrays the story of an arson in Ontario, Canada, from before its actual occurrence to the completion of the investigation begun immediately after the firefighters arrived on the scene.
Abstract
The owner of a furniture store with poor business is persuaded to arrange an arson of the building after he increases his insurance. The torch, the person who actually sets the fire, is shown going about his work. After the firefighters have arrived and spotted suspicious evidence, the scene is secured and the fire marshal is called to the area. The investigators find a forced entry, an incendiary trail, chemicals left from the cause of the fire, and other suspicious evidence. The investigation must establish that without a doubt there is no other possible cause of the fire. The videotape portrays the entire investigative process, including the actions of the police, the laboratory analysis of the evidence, and the cooperation between the fire marshal's office and the police. It is emphasized that all firefighters should be alert to the possibility of arson and look for evidence such as candle wax, plastic bags and pails, gas smells, and time delay gadgets.