On-site detection of accelerant signatures at suspected arson scenes

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The proposed project falls within the target area of Safety and Security and specifically addresses the research topic of Event Detection. The aim of the proposed project is to investigate the capability of a novel detection technology for identifying an accelerant signature at a fire scene as a result of arson or other deliberate criminal actions. Next to natural disasters, fires cause some of the greatest losses to property and human life around the world. Fire investigations are currently overwhelming in Ontario and require the assistance of the Office of the Fire Marshal, Ontario Provincial Police, and the Centre of Forensic Sciences. In collaboration with these supporting organizations, this project will involve the assessment of a novel recovery technique for deceased persons from fatal fires which allows for the collection of volatile materials directly from the body; as well as the validation of a portable detection system for confirmation of an accelerant signature at the scene. Event detection is an important focus in the forensic science community due to the acts of terrorism that have occurred globally. However, detection of other criminal events is equally important as it is these events that regularly impact our society and place a severe burden on individuals and communities. For this reason, the rapid detection of criminal events is imperative in order to protect Canadians from deliberate attacks and to prosecute those responsible for these acts. The use of an on-site detection system at a fire scene is an innovative measure towards addressing this issue as it provides a rapid, confirmatory technique and allows investigators to declare a crime scene and focus the investigation. On-site detection would considerably reduce the resources and time associated with collecting and preserving evidence while also improving the likelihood of recovering an accelerant signature. A rapid response to fire investigations will ultimately assist in improving crime rates by successfully prosecuting arsonists and freeing up resources for additional forensic investigations. The lessons learned from this research will aid in the prevention of future incidents through improved operating procedures and general public awareness.