Electrical Fire Patterns in Vegetation

The formation of branching patterns is commonly associated with electrical discharges. Lightning and electrostatic discharges from a Van de Graaff generator are transient luminous branching patterns, and sometimes the passing of an electrical current leaves residual physical patterns. Examples of how such patterns are formed are presented.

Arson Under the Christmas Tree

A rural mountain cottage fire was initially ruled as an accidental Christmas tree fire. The insurance company’s Special Investigation Unit discovered information that prompted further fire scene investigation. The scene investigation resulted in evidence that the fire was likely intentionally set.