The ATF National Response Team members currently in Los Angeles have begun their initial assessment of the Palisades Fire, which has resulted in the loss of at least eight lives and the destruction of over 5,000 structures. This fire is now considered the second most devastating in Southern California history, following the Eaton Fire. The team is taking the lead in investigating the incident, with efforts ongoing to contain both wildfires.
Tim Jones, a deputy assistant director at the ATF, shared that 15 team members have been assigned to the Palisades Fire at the request of local authorities to determine its cause and origin. These agents possess expertise in forensics and other scientific fields, bringing a meticulous and analytical approach to solving complex ATF investigations. Earlier this year, team members were sent to New Orleans following a terror attack on New Year’s and to Las Vegas in response to a Cybertruck explosion near the Trump hotel.
Jones mentioned that predicting the timeline for the Palisades Fire investigation is challenging, citing the agency’s final report on the 2023 Maui wildfire, which was released more than a year after the incident. Until the investigation concludes, Jones emphasized that investigators will be reserved in sharing findings until all evidence is gathered.
The Palisades Fire ignited on January 7, following a previous fire in the same area just six days prior. Questions have arisen about whether winds may have reignited remnants from the earlier fire, potentially triggering the Palisades Fire. Despite speculation, experts like Luca Carmignani from San Diego State University advised against drawing conclusions without a thorough investigation.
Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley assured at a recent press conference that every detail of the fires will be thoroughly examined. There is no established leading theory yet regarding the cause of the Palisades Fire, as confirmed by a law enforcement source. Additionally, residents in Altadena reported sightings of flames near an electrical transmission tower before the Eaton Fire started on January 7.
Edison International, an electric utility, mentioned in a news release that a preliminary analysis of its power lines is ongoing in connection to the Eaton Fire. Investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact causes of both fires.
The power company stated that there were no interruptions or operational/electrical issues from 12 hours before the reported start time of the fire until more than one hour after. They also acknowledged finding a downed powerline near the Hurst Fire in the San Fernando Valley but were uncertain if the damage occurred before or after the fire began.
Former fire investigators explained that wildfire investigations involve establishing timelines, interviewing witnesses, analyzing 911 calls, satellite photos, and weather data. Evidence, such as footprints, tire tracks, and even cigarette butts, can provide crucial clues. Investigators meticulously eliminate hypotheses until evidence supports a clear cause.
Experts mentioned that high winds in wildfires can help determine the fire’s origin by creating distinctive burn patterns. Once the cause is identified, investigators focus on determining responsibility and possible criminal activity, which can be challenging to prove beyond a reasonable doubt.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized the need for thorough investigations before concluding whether arson was involved. While some arrests related to arson have been made, authorities have not linked individuals to the major fires. Patience and a comprehensive review of all evidence are essential in these cases.
Authorities in Southern California were called to respond to a report of nearby brush being ignited on Monday. Robin, who has been closely monitoring the ongoing fires in the region through news coverage, expressed skepticism regarding the origins of these fires. “My hope is they possess more information than what has been disclosed to the public and refrain from dedicating excessive resources to pursuing unsubstantiated leads,” Robin remarked.
Veteran arson investigator Sing emphasized that in certain instances, there may be a lack of conclusive evidence to pinpoint the cause of a fire or to assign responsibility. “Some cases remain unsolvable,” Sing stated.
CNN reporters Paul P. Murphy and Avery Schmitz provided valuable contributions to this report. For further updates and exclusive newsletters from CNN, users can sign up for an account at CNN.com.
