External Heat Patterns

Sometimes gasoline or other flammable liquids are sprayed on the body of a car, causing that paint surface to become heat damaged. It is also possible for radiant heat from a pool fire or another source (such as another fire burning nearby) to cause such damage. In the event of multiple areas of heat damage that are not contiguous, there is a greater possibility of an intentional fire.

Mitsubishi Expo, showing significant fire damage pattern over engine compartment, but also surface heat damage to right front fender and bumper. Close inspection showed that the two areas of heat damage were not contiguous. Arrow indicates undamaged paint between two areas of burn damage.

Expo, showing closer view of bubbled paint and bumper, most likely from an accelerant that had been applied there. The lack of burn damage inside the engine compartment and on the undercarriage indicated that the fender and bumper burn damage was not caused by fire in either of those locations. Fire was determined to be arson.

The Toyota Corolla above shows external front end burn damage. The Corolla struck a Ford Explorer that also burned. After collision, both vehicles came to rest adjacent to each other. Witness statements corroborated physical evidence that the fire started on the Explorer and propagated to the Corolla.