Roadway: Burn Patterns

Sometimes it is possible for the investigator to visit the scene or site of the fire. If that is the case, burn and debris patterns can provide clues as to fire origin and cause. Sometimes, in vehicle collisions, there will be evidence of fire onboard another vehicle, which will raise questions as to which vehicle was the cause. The attitude of the vehicle can often be established, and it may make it easier to assess the effect of wind. Depending on the incident location, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) may be contacted to provide information as to the prevailing wind direction at the time of the fire. Burn patterns on roadways can be especially useful if scene photographs exist that can be used to further identify the location of the fire and other details of interest, such as the attitude of the fire vehicle, fluid spillage stains leading to the fire vehicle, or the position of other vehicles that may have relevance to the event.

Burn pattern on roadway, showing heat-damaged pavement, burned vegetation, and debris within two months of the fire.