Examples of Collision Fire Investigations

During a side swipe event, the right-rear quarter panel of a 1995 Pathfinder was torn free, severing the fuel filler. Gasoline available from breaches to the filler and vent hoses was distributed during the subsequent rollover of at least two rotations. Ignition was likely caused by mechanical sparks during the rollover event. Other ignition sources were possible. Reportedly, fire initiated immediately, consuming virtually all combustibles.

Close up of Pathfinder fuel filler and vent hose remnants still attached to the body panel that was torn free.

1994 Toyota Camry impacted a narrow object to the front, off center to the left, with a Delta V of 31-39 mph. Investigation revealed that coolant and brake fluid were released in the collision, and that ignition of those fluids was likely through a hot surface (such as the exhaust manifold) or possibly an electrical spark. Fire initiated within two minutes of impact and propagated to the interior within five minutes.

1994 Camry, showing frontal damage