One of the goals of using proper systematic methodology when examining a fire scene is to allow it to
hold up to scrutiny during any judicial proceedings. Precedent setting court cases set the example for
what is considered “proper” conduct. One of the landmark cases in the field of Fire Investigation is
“Michigan v Tyler” which was decided in 1978.
Instructions:
Read the supreme court case, Michigan v. Tyler, in the Readings and Resources section.
Discuss:
o This case is testing the limits of constitutional rights under the fourth amendment. What is
the fourth amendment and, in this case, how does it apply to the fire investigator?
o What are three different legal ways that a fire investigator can enter a scene to collect
evidence? Provide examples of each.
o Do you feel the initial entry into the scene after the fire was legal and appropriate? What
about the return the next morning?
o Imagine you could go back in time and work with Chief See and Detective Webb on this
investigation. As a group, what would you recommend you do differently?
