Fire Investigation

In February of 2004, San Juan County and the City of Farmington approved a memorandum of understanding which created the San Juan County Joint Fire and Explosion Investigation Task Force. This Task Force is composed of city and county fire investigators. The MOU allows fire investigators from both agencies the availability to assist in investigations outside their normal jurisdiction. Currently the Task Force investigates fire in the unincorporated area of San Juan County, City of Farmington, City of Aztec and the Navajo Indian Reservation. The Task Force's area of coverage is approximately 5,500 square miles.

All five investigators attached to the Task Force are Nationally Certified through NAFI and IAAI attend several continuing education courses through out the year. Investigators also instruct basic origin and cause courses for their individual departments and local law enforcement. All investigators work on-call schedules, providing two investigators per shift.

All fire and explosion incidents are investigated to determine the origin and cause which is an aid in preventing future fires and to assist in the prosecution of incendiary fires. The Task Force works in conjunction with the ATF, FBI, Navajo Criminal Investigation Division, San Juan County Sheriff's Office, Farmington Police Department, Aztec Police Department and the Farmington Police Bomb Squad.

Many times people see and hear important events before and after a fire, but do not inform any law enforcement, fire fighter, or fire investigator on the scene. When a possible witness leaves the scene that valuable information can be lost forever. Please help us solve these destructive events within our community. Fire safety should always be an ongoing community effort. Please Share Information!!

In 2007, the Task Force finished building SR-1, a fully stocked special response unit used for various types of investigations. The unit is complete with numerous light sets, on-board generator, evidence collection kits, photography kits, Total Station Plotting System, and numerous hand tools, both manual and powered. The rear interior of the unit serves as meeting area for assignments, a private area for interviews, or just a nice warm/cool area out of the elements.

Citizen involvement is imperative in identifying individuals responsible for setting fires in our community. Without your tips on the identity of the arsonist, our entire community suffers.

A reward may be available to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest of those responsible for setting an arson fire in San Juan County. Your calls are confidential and you can remain anonymous.

Report Suspected Arson

To report suspected arson contact one of the following:

  • San Juan County Crime Stoppers - 505-334-TIPS (8477)
  • San Juan County Fire Department - 505-334-4707 or 505-334-4710
  • Farmington Fire Department -505-599-1430 or 505-599-1439

You may also click on the following link and leave a tip on the secure online web tip submission form.

Crime Stoppers

Arson is the number one cause of fires in non-residential structures. Arson is the number two cause of fires in the home; cooking fires being number one. Arsonists strike for many reasons including; vandalism, insurance fraud, excitement or pleasure, revenge, hide another crime, just to name a few. Arson is a crime that has a tremendous effect on the tax base and work force of communities. It also forces the citizens of a community to pay higher insurance premiums.

Statistics 

Please click here for the latest annual Arson Incident Report from the Bureau of Arms, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.