The Gainesville Fire Rescue Investigative Services Officer investigates the origin and cause of any fire for which the cause cannot be readily explained. Not every fire that Gainesville Fire Rescue responds to requires an in-depth fire investigation. However, each year fires across this nation result in billions of dollars of property loss and the deaths of hundreds of people. By efficiently and accurately identifying the cause of fires, whether accidental or incendiary, the fire investigation can make a real and substantial contribution to reducing these terrible losses. Only through thorough investigation of fires can steps be taken to prevent similar fires.

Fires remain the most difficult of all areas of investigation. No other investigation is as daunting as a fire scene. In order to determine that a fire has been purposely set, all accidental fire causes must be ruled out. Arson is one of the most difficult crimes to prevent, detect, investigate and successfully prosecute. It is challenging because of the difficulties in reaching firm and unassailable conclusions as to a fire's cause. The fire scene investigation starts with the processing of the fire scene, which includes documenting the scene with photographs, sketches and diagrams. Many hours are spent with follow-up investigation that may include interviews, records checks, depositions, court appearances and other administrative functions.

Gainesville Fire Rescue is committed to vigorously pursuing the investigation and prosecution of any incident that is the result of an arson fire. Investigative Services Officer Sandy Ellison leads the investigative effort, with assistance and support from the Department's Fire Inspectors operating at the scene of a fire.  For more information about the Investigations section of the Risk Reduction bureau, call 352-334-5065.