In a vehicle investigation, what should the investigator start with?

Starting the investigation with the documentation of the area surrounding the vehicle is crucial for several reasons. The context in which the vehicle is located can provide vital clues about the fire's origin and how it developed. By documenting the surrounding area first, an investigator can gather information about potential ignition sources, witness locations, and any other relevant factors that may influence the understanding of the incident.

The investigator can also create a clearer narrative of the scene which includes the positioning of other vehicles, buildings, or flammable materials that could have contributed to or impacted the fire's behavior. This foundational step helps to frame the entire investigation, allowing for a more informed analysis as they progress to inspecting the vehicle itself, gathering possible witness accounts, and analyzing fire damage.

In contrast, starting with the vehicle's interior or focusing on the fire damage itself may lead to missing critical environmental factors that could provide insight into the cause and circumstances of the fire. Gathering witness accounts is also essential, but it often relies on the initial documentation of the scene to ensure that inquiries are targeted and relevant. Thus, emphasizing the importance of situational context makes documentation of the surrounding area a key first step in any vehicle fire investigation.