The FIU determines the origin and cause of fires and other incidents occuring in Contra Costa County that are suspected to be criminal in nature.

The primary purpose of the Fire Investigation Unit is the investigation of fires that are intentionally set; suspicious; unlawful; attempted arson; causing serious injury or death; or involving possession or use of fireworks, incendiary devices, and/or explosives.

The duties and responsibilities of the FIU include: conducting interviews of suspects, victims and witnesses; sifting through fire debris to determine the origin of the fire; identifying possible ignition sources; collecting and preserving physical evidence; documenting the fire scene with sketches and photographs; preparing, serving and returning search warrants; preparing criminal fire offense cases for submittal to the District Attorney’s Office for complaints; arresting and processing criminal offenders; giving expert witness testimony and presenting evidence in court; processing felony offenses committed by juveniles; instructing fire and police personnel on fire and arson investigation procedures; and responding to fire and/or rescue emergencies, as required.