1. Chapter 11.2 Notes

2. Searching the Fire Scene Must determine the accelerant before evaporation Does not require a search warrant May allow for seizure of evidence Must focus on finding the origin

3. The search Containers Streamers Ignition device Breaking and entering Theft Begin interviews with eyewitnesses

4. Ancillary factors Drafts and winds Collapsing floors, roofs, walls Stairways, airshafts, holes Flammable liquids flow to lowest point

5. Accelerants The most common are kerosene and gasoline Portable vapor detectors can be used as a screening device, and, also trained dogs First fire research laboratory in the US is in Maryland

6. Collection and Preservation of Arson Evidence 1. 2-3 quarts of ash, soot debris collected at point of origin 2. Collection includes porous materials and other substances which may contain flammable residues –packed in airtight containers 3. Collection must include control substrates

7. Collection & Preservation cont.. 4. Collect and seal open containers –Including empty ones 5. Search, collection of igniters –Most common is the match 6. Clothing of the suspect –Placed in separate airtight container 7. Frozen samples of soil or vegetation

8. Analysis of Flammable Residues Gas chromatography – separates hydrocarbon components Evidence in the airtight container should include headspace Removal of vapor and analysis yields chromatograph consistent with known hydrocarbons (hexane, benzene, toluene, xylenes) New method includes vapor concentration –Uses a charcoal strip May sometimes need to use GC/MS