Blazing Trails: Crosby the Arson Dog’s Impact on Fire Scene Investigations

By Haley Brandon

In the complex and dangerous world of fire investigation, one unsung hero stands out: Crosby, an accelerant-detecting canine who works alongside Captain Matthew Rice of Horry County Fire Rescue (HCFR). Their partnership, which began in April 2018, has transformed how arson investigations are conducted, showcasing the indispensable role of trained dogs in forensic science.

A Day in the Life of Captain Rice and Crosby

Captain Rice, one of two Fire Investigators for Horry County and the only one paired with an accelerant-detecting canine, describes Crosby as more than just a work partner. “Crosby is part of the family. We work together, live together, and even vacation together,” Rice says. This bond is crucial, as their daily routine involves constant training and readiness for unpredictable fire scenes.

Crosby’s training is intensive and ongoing. As a food-reward dog, Crosby only eats when he successfully identifies an accelerant, ensuring his skills are sharp. Their workday begins and ends with activities reinforcing Crosby’s training. During training scenarios, Crosby will often pick up and drop the can in addition to sitting or lying down to identify the accelerant. 

The Science Behind the Sniff

Crosby’s role in arson investigations is pivotal. Trained to detect petroleum-based ignitable liquids such as lighter fluid, gasoline, and diesel, Crosby can pinpoint the source of an accelerant with remarkable accuracy, even from a single drop. This ability significantly enhances the efficiency and accuracy of fire scene investigations, reducing manpower and time required, and ultimately saving taxpayer money.

Rice highlights the rigorous process behind training an arson dog. Once a suitable canine is selected, it undergoes months of training with a specialized trainer to imprint the petroleum odor. This is followed by an intensive 200-hour course with its handler, covering everything from canine care to evidence handling. The duo must then pass a series of practical and written exams taught by Maine Specialty Dogs and certified by the Maine Criminal Justice Academy to be certified for duty.

A Dynamic Duo in Action

Captain Rice recounts a memorable case that underscores Crosby’s critical role. Just two days after returning from training, they were called to a suspected arson involving a car fire. Thanks to Crosby’s acute sense of smell, they identified gasoline on the suspect’s clothing, leading to an immediate arrest and subsequent conviction. Such successes are a testament to the enhanced accuracy and efficiency that Crosby brings to arson investigations.

The presence of an arson dog like Crosby significantly boosts the success rate of investigations. “Statistically, arson investigations are 50% more likely to succeed when a canine is involved,” Rice notes. This remarkable statistic speaks volumes about the value of these specialized dogs in fire departments.

Challenges and Rewards

Despite the clear benefits, working with an arson dog comes with challenges. One major issue is the lack of awareness and education about arson dogs’ capabilities and role. Rice emphasizes the need for public education, which he actively engages in through community events. Crosby often steals the show and educates the public on fire safety and the importance of his work.

For those aspiring to work with arson dogs, Rice offers sage advice: perseverance and commitment. “It took me 20 years to get one,” he says. The relationship with an arson dog is a lifelong commitment, as the dog becomes an integral part of the handler’s family, even after retirement.

A Unique Journey

Crosby’s journey to becoming an arson dog is unique. He is a career-change dog who didn’t make it as a service dog but found his true calling in arson detection and excelled in his training. The partnership between Captain Matthew Rice and Crosby is a testament to arson dogs’ extraordinary capabilities and importance in fire investigations. 

Crosby’s path began with the State Farm arson dog program. Starting next year, the program will be managed by Maine Specialty Dogs and funded by International Fire Dogs. This corporation trains and provides these specialized canines to departments free of charge and relies on donations to continue its mission. To support this program and the future of arson dogs, please visit www.internationalfd.org.