A Twist of Fate

The author, after initially aspiring to be a doctor, entered forensic science in 1974 based on his father's advice. He joined the Georgia Bureau of Investigation State Crime Laboratory, starting in trace evidence before switching to fire debris analysis. Finding fire marshals overwhelmed, he began assisting at fire scenes. He later moved to the private sector, managing a fire investigation division at Applied Technical Services for 28 years. Over his career, he investigated more than 2,000 fire scenes, working 100–150 cases annually for about 15 years. He found that approximately 40% of fires were intentionally set, 40% had accidental causes, and the causes of 20% were undetermined. The author describes fire investigation as intellectually challenging and physically demanding, often involving hazardous conditions with minimal protective equipment at the time. He developed a nationwide clientele for both fire scene investigation and laboratory analysis, finding the former more rewarding.