Authorities are examining the causes of the destructive wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles, which have claimed at least 16 lives and destroyed numerous structures. According to NBC News, investigators are focusing on the possibility of arson or accidental human involvement, as natural causes and electrical infrastructure failures have been ruled out.
Key Findings So Far
The Palisades Fire, a major wildfire that began on January 7, originated in a remote, brush-covered hillside near the Temescal Ridge Trail. Initial investigations have ruled out lightning, as there were no storms, and electrical equipment, as there is no such infrastructure in the area. This has led experts to consider human activity as the most likely cause, though deliberate arson seems unlikely.
Rick Crawford, a former battalion chief with the Los Angeles Fire Department, noted that the rugged terrain of the fire’s origin is an unusual location for arson. “Arsonists typically don’t venture 150 meters off a trail through brush and trees to start a fire and then escape,” he explained.
Natural and Human Factors at Play
Accidental fires in forested areas around Los Angeles are not uncommon. These can result from activities such as using portable stoves or sparks from vehicles. The region’s dry conditions and strong winds, however, have exacerbated the situation, creating the perfect environment for wildfires to spread.
Retired fire investigator Scott Fischer emphasized that nature alone can trigger such disasters under these conditions. While arson does occur, he dismissed the notion of an organized group of arsonists in the area.
Experts have also warned of a “copycat fire” phenomenon, where individuals might intentionally start fires after seeing high-profile incidents like the Palisades Fire. Though rare, this behavior has been documented, according to Terry Taylor, a retired wildfire investigator.
Eaton Fire: A Different Hypothesis
The Eaton Fire, another significant blaze that started east of Altadena, may have a different origin. This area is home to high-voltage power lines, and experts suggest that strong winds could have caused cables to collide, producing molten particles capable of igniting dry ground.
Ed Nordskog, a retired detective specializing in arson cases, said this is a plausible explanation but added that sparks from equipment like camping stoves or lawnmowers are also possibilities. However, he dismissed the likelihood of intentional arson in this case.
The Complex Process of Investigating Wildfires
Determining the cause of a wildfire is a meticulous process that can take weeks, months, or even years. Investigators begin by pinpointing the fire’s origin and analyzing burn patterns. They then search the area for clues, such as metal fragments or footprints, using tools like magnets and binoculars.
In the Eaton Fire, investigators might use magnets to find tiny metal particles potentially created by power lines. However, this alone doesn’t confirm the lines as the fire’s cause. “You still need to determine whether the spark from the lines happened because something else was already burning or if it started the fire,” Nordskog explained.
If human involvement is confirmed, investigators must determine whether it was accidental, negligent, or intentional. A study led by climatologist John Abatzoglou of the University of California, Merced, found that over 95% of wildfires in Los Angeles County between 1992 and 2020 were caused by human activity, most of which were unintentional.
Authorities Work to Find Answers
Concerns over arson have grown after a man was detained in Woodland Hills on suspicion of starting a dumpster fire. However, no evidence was found to charge him with arson, and he was arrested for violating his parole.
A task force comprising local and state agencies, including the Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles Police Department, and Cal Fire, is working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to uncover the causes of these wildfires.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna emphasized the thoroughness of the investigation. “Everything is on the table,” he stated in a press conference. Experts caution that the findings could take months or even years to finalize.