Arson Investigation
The Arson Bureau is responsible for conducting fire scene and follow up
investigations for all incendiary or suspicious fires. In addition, Arson
Investigators are called to determine the cause of fires that are not
immediately discernible to firefighting personnel. The unit also
investigates explosions, fire related deaths, life threatening burn
injuries, suspected explosive devices and bomb threats. The unit is
comprised of a Captain, one Lieutenant and twelve Arson Investigators. All
investigators are certified peace officers.
Penal Code 28.02 Arson: A person commits an offense if he starts a fire
or causes an explosion with intent to destroy or damage:
- any vegetation, fence, or structure on open-space land; or
- any building, habitation, or vehicle:
- knowing that it is within the city limits of an incorporated city
or town;
- knowing that it is insured against damage or destruction;
- knowing that it is subject to a mortgage or other security
interest;
- knowing that it is located on property belonging to another;
- knowing that it has located within it property belonging to
another; or
- when he is reckless about whether the burning or explosion will
endanger the life of some individual or the safety of the property
of another.
BURN AN ARSONIST FOR COLD CASH Arson Hot Line 227-FIRE
(3473). The
Independent Insurance Agents Association of San Antonio has established a
reward fund for anyone who helps with information leading to the arrest
and conviction of person or persons intentionally starting a fire. Rewards
of up to $1000 can be authorized. Complete confidentiality, if requested,
is guaranteed.
A BOMB THREAT IS NOT A PRANK Anyone who reports a bombing or fire that
he knows is false or baseless is guilty of a Class A Misdemeanor. However,
if the offense is reported to be at a school the offense is more severe,
it’s considered to be a State Jail Felony.
ACID BOMBS, DRY ICE BOMBS, BOTTLE BOMBS These devices are dangerous.
They can blind an individual and amputate fingers and hands or possibly
take a life. It’s also felony to manufacture or possess one of these
explosive devices, punishable from 2 to 10 years in prison.