Real-Life Decision Making
Arson investigators are used to making weighty decisions. "Our findings
can make serious lifestyle changes for any suspects involved," says investigator
John Putinsky. "We must make sure we come to the correct conclusion."
A fire officer in charge of the fire scene makes the first decision. If
he or she has any indication that the fire is suspicious, an arson investigator
will be on the scene immediately.
Arson investigators must use the skills they develop through formal training
and on-the-job experience to determine the origin of a fire. These origins
fall into one of four categories:
- Unknown -- the cause can't be determined
- Natural -- an act of nature, such as lightning
- Accidental -- the result of carelessness
- Incendiary -- arson, purposely set
"Whether a fire was intentionally set or derived from an accidental source
of ignition is the most profound decision you have to make in this field,"
says arson investigator Roy Paul.
Let's see what you would do. Consider the following scenario:
As a private investigator for an insurance company, you've been asked
to investigate a car fire. When you arrive, you interview the young couple
who owns the vehicle.
The wife tells you that she was going on a job interview. While she ran
into the house to get her purse, she left the car running in the driveway.
During the few moments she was gone, the engine erupted into flames.
The husband says that maybe rats are to blame, because he has seen a few
of the nasty critters in the garage. During your investigation, you find that
the radiator hose has been deliberately cut or gnawed by an animal. Could
he be right?
You investigate under the engine. You find the remains of a rat's
nest. You also discover that the stereo system has been removed from the interior.
When you comment on this, the couple tells you that they were planning
to sell the car, and they wanted to keep their stereo.
What do you do?