What must a Fire Marshal determine in cases of supposed arson?

In cases of supposed arson, the Fire Marshal's primary responsibility is to determine the intention behind the fire. This involves investigating whether there was a deliberate act to set the fire with the intent to cause destruction or harm. Understanding the intention is critical for categorizing the incident as arson, as arson specifically refers to the willful and malicious act of setting fire to property.

By establishing the intent, the Fire Marshal can gather evidence that may include witness statements, surveillance footage, prior threats, or any behavior that leads to the conclusion that the fire was not an accident. This process is essential for criminal prosecution and ensures accountability for those who may have engaged in this illegal activity. Other aspects such as the speed of the fire department's response, building codes, or adherence to protocols, while they may play a role in the overall context of fire safety and investigation, do not directly address the crucial element of intent that defines arson.