78-12. Investigations of Fires.
- Each Fire Chief shall be responsible for determining the origin, cause and circumstances of every fire occurring within his/her fire district. The Fire Marshal shall investigate, or cause to be investigated, the origin, cause and circumstances of a fire in the County when: the fire involves injury or loss of life to any person; incendiarism is suspected; the Fire Department having jurisdiction over the fire requests such investigation; or circumstances warrant an investigation. Each investigation shall begin as soon after the occurrence of the fire as practical. Any information obtained pursuant to any such investigation shall be confidential as authorized by N.C.G.S. Chapter 58, Article 79.
- The Sheriff's Department, upon request of the Fire Marshal or his authorized representatives, may render such assistance as necessary in the investigation of any fire. The law enforcement agency having jurisdiction shall be promptly advised of incidents where incendiarism or other illegal activities are discovered.
