What is inaccurate regarding "V" pattern burns in fire investigations?

The assertion that "V" pattern burns point towards the fire's point of origin is inaccurate because "V" patterns are commonly observed in fire investigations to indicate the direction of heat and flame spread rather than the exact point of origin. These patterns form as a result of the fire burning upward and outward, with the legs of the "V" shape indicating broader areas of damage caused by the flames.

In fire investigations, these patterns help investigators understand how the fire might have spread through a structure and can indicate where fuel was present that contributed to the fire's intensity. While "V" patterns do offer insights into the fire's behavior, they don't always provide a clear or direct path to the point of origin. Therefore, relying solely on these patterns to determine the exact origin can lead to misunderstandings in forensic fire analysis. Understanding the factors that contribute to fire alterations, such as fuel source and ventilation, together with the "V" pattern, provides a more comprehensive analysis of the fire's development and dynamics.