Arson training at Fort Carson helping investigators statewide

A group of investigators at Fort Carson is learning more about arson. More than 40 investigators from across the state went to Fort Carson for arson training.

Investigators say it is the most difficult investigation to do, and the goal of the drill was to perfect criminal cases.

Crews performed flash over simulations to get a glimpse of reality.

“Flashover simulations is when everything in the room gets super-heated to the point it all ignites at one time. It’s a very dangerous situation for a firefighter to walk into because everything in the room is putting off gases,” said Glen Willoway, Fire Chief of the Fort Caron Fire Department.

The biggest challenge investigators face is little evidence.

“The problem with arson investigation is the whole structure has gone down. So, you’re actually tearing parts of the building away and what’s remaining is what you have to identify and make sure it is part of an arson scene,” said Tim Kelly, group supervisor for Arson Explosive Group.

Investigators rely on smoke patterns to help determine if a fire was caused by arson.

“Once the fire is out, investigators go in and take a look at the different clues from patterns, burn patterns, chart patterns and smoke. Heat causes different things to act in different ways,” said Silloway.

Crews say response time is also crucial.

“It’s incredibly important. Lives are lost every year relating to arson crimes. It is a violent crime,” said Kelly.

This training comes as a Manitou Springs woman appeared in court Monday, accused of burning down her boyfriend’s home.

Crews are still investigating the cause and origin of the July 2015 fire. Arrest affidavits reveal a neighbor saw Nicchi Ladawn See spraying lighter fluid on the home.

See pleaded not guilty today in court Monday. She is heading to trial and charged with arson, attempted manslaughter and criminal mischief.