Written reports or records in a fire investigation are examples of what type of evidence?

The correct answer is documentary evidence. In the context of fire investigations, written reports or records serve to provide a formal account of the findings, observations, and analyses conducted during the investigation. This type of evidence can include incident reports, witness statements, photographs, diagrams, and any written documentation that supports the investigation’s conclusions.

Documentary evidence plays a crucial role in fire investigations because it helps establish a factual basis for understanding the events leading to a fire, the response of firefighting personnel, and any potential violations of fire codes or safety regulations. It allows investigators to compile a comprehensive record that can be reviewed, analyzed, and referenced in legal proceedings.

While testimonial evidence refers to statements made by witnesses or experts regarding their observations or experiences, and physical evidence pertains to tangible items collected from the scene (like debris or burn patterns), documentary evidence specifically encompasses all written records which are essential for providing a structured narrative of the investigation. Circumstantial evidence consists of indirect evidence that suggests a conclusion based on surrounding circumstances rather than direct proof; thus, it does not fit the definition for written reports or records.