ARSON HOMICIDE IN AMERICA 2010-2020

Arson-associated homicides present unique investigative challenges by their very nature, as they involve coinciding fire and law enforcement investigations in which the interests of both entities must be considered. Understanding the trends and characteristics of the offenses, victims, and suspects is crucial to developing an investigative strategy that can lead to successful case reso lution.

Important Takeaways

 Females were overrepresented as victims of arson homicide relative to female victims of homicide overall (UCR Data).

 Arson homicides precipitated by an argument were more likely to involve the use of an accelerant (p < .001).

 Those who commit arson homicide with an accelerant were more likely to have used substances immediately prior to the arson (p < .001).

 Arson homicides involving suspect substance use immediately prior to the offense were also likely to involve a precipitating argument (p < .001).

 If a suspect of arson homicide engaged in substance abuse immediately prior to the offense, he /she was more likely to be a stranger to the victim χ2(3, n = 232) = 8.00, p =.046.

1.Suspects with mental health issues are more likely to use accelerants than those without mental health issues.

2.Male suspects are more likely to use accelerants than female suspects.

3.Former/current spouse or intimate partner relationship is most common.

4.Accelerant is used in most arson homicide cases.

Who are the suspects?

Total = 383 adults and minors (324 identified, 59 unidentified)

 76.8% male; 23.2% female

 Average age = 34.26 ± 13.80 years, range 11-79 years

Based on the ME and LE narratives:

 Fifty-four (14.1%) had coinciding substance use at the time of offense.

 Nineteen (5.0%) had known history of substance use.

 Twenty-eight (7.3%) had known history of mental health symptoms and/or diagnoses.

1.There is no difference in accelerant use based on the suspect’s mental health.

2.Male and female suspects are equally as likely to use accelerants.

3.Suspect is most likely to be a friend, roommate, or acquaintance of the victim.

4.It is more likely that accelerant will not be used in arson homicide cases.

Who are the victims?

Total = 327 adults

 56.3%% male; 43.7% female

 Average age = 49.11 ±17.31 years, range 18-97 years

Based on the ME and LE narratives:

 One hundred (30.8%) had coinciding substance use at the time of offense.

 Fifty-two (15.9%) had known history of substance use.

 Twenty-six (8%) had known history of mental health symptoms and/or diagnoses.

Data source: Center for Disease Control. (2022). National Violent Death Reporting System. [Unpublished raw data].

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