Investigations & Incident Response

The Bureau of Investigations (BOI) – Fire & Explosion Investigation Section is available to respond or provide consult by phone 24/7. We also make trainings available to fire departments and first responders related to fire investigation and we respond to 91-A/Right to Know requests for records.

Investigators work collaboratively with fire and law enforcement partners, as well as local, state, and federal agencies to successfully resolve criminal cases and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

The Bureau of Investigations responds to the following types of incidents:

  • Fatalities as a result of a fire, explosion, building collapse or a carbon monoxide release (other than a motor vehicle)
  • Serious Bodily Injury as a result of a fire, explosion, carbon monoxide incident, or a building collapse
  • Line of Duty Death or Serious Fire Service Injury
  • Fires that indicate arson (intentionally set)
  • Explosions with criminal indicators
  • Fires or explosions that involve large dollar loss or community significance
  • Fire or explosions that occur at state owned property
  • Fire or explosions with an Undetermined Origin and Cause

The State Fire Marshal's Office is available to assist any fire chief upon request and provides assistance to state and local law enforcement agencies, the Attorney General's Office, and County Attorney Offices.

investigations Personnel at an Incident.

All scenes must be secured by police or fire personnel.

The Duty-Supervisor will need incident commander/on-scene contact prior to approving and deploying assets.

Related Links

NH Fatal Fires

Responding investigation teams can provide the following:

  • Ignitable Liquid/Accelerant Detection K-9s
  • Origin and Cause Determination
  • Fire Scene Reconstruction
  • Post Blast Investigation
  • Collection of Fire Scene Evidence
  • Interviews
  • Scene Documentation
  • Command trailers
  • Criminal and Administrative Search Warrants

Ignitable Liquid/ Accelerant Detection Canine (K-9) Unit

Ignitable Liquid/Accelerant Detection canines can detect minute traces of ignitable liquids used in fires and can lead investigators to a specific location where physical samples can be taken for forensic laboratory analysis.

To speak with the on-call Supervisor or request assistance from an Investigator or K-9 team after normal business hours, please call New Hampshire State Police Communications at (603) 223-4381.

Arson Hotline

Arson Hotline

(800) 400-3526

This hotline is for citizens to report information that may be helpful in suspected arson cases. All contacts are strictly confidential.