ATF National Response Team Mobilizes to Investigate Cause of the Pacific Palisades Fire
Los Angeles – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) National Response Team (NRT) has been deployed to investigate the Pacific Palisades fire, one of the devastating wildfires that have ravaged and continue to threaten homes and businesses throughout the Los Angeles region.
With decades of experience and cutting-edge resources, the NRT is among the nation’s foremost authorities on fire scene investigations. "The NRT brings a wealth of experience and expertise to these types of investigations,” said Brice McCracken, ATF Special Agent in Charge, National Center for Explosives Training and Research. “The NRT is committed to working closely with our partners to determine the origin and cause of the Pacific Palisades Fire.”
The NRT operates in two synchronized components: one team handles analysis at the scene—including examining damage, debris, and burn patterns—while another focuses on gathering external information—including surveillance footage, digital evidence, and witness statements. These teams collaborate daily to ensure a seamless, coordinated investigation.
Fifteen ATF investigators from around the country arrived in Los Angeles over the weekend, reinforcing ATF-certified fire investigators (CFIs) already working alongside local, state, and federal agencies. In addition to CFIs, the team is comprised of special agents, chemists, engineers, and investigative research specialists. Their mission will be to conduct an origin and cause examination of the Pacific Palisades fire.
“ATF is fully dedicated to providing answers to the Pacific Palisades community," emphasized Jose Medina. Acting Special Agent in Charge of ATF Los Angeles Field Division. "These wildfires have caused immeasurable heartbreak and losses. ATF is determined to leverage every available resource to deliver a thorough and transparent investigation."
Since its inception in 1978, the NRT has responded to 927 incidents, including seven activations this fiscal year alone. The NRT’s rapid-response structure enables it to generally deploy within 24 hours, bringing in state-of-the-art technology, including drones, 3D mapping, and portable labs, to aid in fire origin and cause determinations.
The NRT has a proven track record of handling the nation’s most tragic and complex fire and explosive incidents. Past deployments include:
- The Maui Wildfire Disaster: One of the deadliest U.S. fires in over a century, requiring an intricate investigation due to high winds and rapid fire spread.
- Conception Dive Boat Fire: A fatal fire near Santa Barbara where the NRT helped uncover key evidence leading to safety reforms in marine operations.
- 2020 Midwest Civil Unrest: The team processed over 200 arson scenes linked to protests, providing critical evidence that led to arrests and prosecutions.
The team’s swift arrival and unparalleled expertise highlight ATF’s commitment to supporting communities affected by this tragedy. If you have any information to provide regarding the Pacific Palisades fire, please submit tips by texting the code ATFLA to 63975 and then follow the link to create a report. Tips can remain anonymous.
ATF is the federal agency with jurisdiction for investigating fires and crimes of arson. More information on ATF can be found at www.atf.gov.
