Which of the following is NOT one of the three key questions an arson investigator should focus on?

The focus of arson investigation typically revolves around determining the circumstances surrounding the fire. The three key questions that arise in this context are essential for establishing the nature and cause of the fire.

The first question, concerning the origin of the fire, helps investigators pinpoint the location where the fire started, which is crucial for understanding how it might have spread and the factors contributing to its spread.

Next, investigating how the fire was started addresses the methods or materials that were involved in igniting the blaze. This could include the identification of accelerants or ignition sources that might indicate whether the fire was started intentionally.

The third question deals with whether the fire was an accident or intentional. This distinction is vital for legal and insurance reasons, impacting liability and potential criminal charges.

In contrast, determining who was present at the fire scene is not one of the primary focuses of initial investigations. While it can be relevant in later stages for gathering witness statements or establishing timelines, it does not directly contribute to understanding the fire's origin, method of ignition, or intent behind the fire, which are the critical aspects an arson investigator must address early on. This makes identifying the presence of individuals less central to the immediate investigation objectives.