Fire, Cigarettes and Alcohol: An Explosive Case Study
May 8 @ 6:00 pm AEST
On 16 April 2018, a deliberately lit fire and explosion occurred at a bonded warehouse in Alexandria, NSW.
This prompted a complex investigation and demolition process delayed by council approval.
Forensic analysis revealed that $34 million worth of imported cigarettes had been stolen prior to the fire.
The scene showed evidence of arson, including strategically placed pallets of used tyres and a single petrol-positive sample found in a mastic joint.
Later testing confirmed could retain ignitable liquid residues for extended periods.
The fire was determined to be a calculated act to conceal the theft.
The warehouse owner’s insurance claim was denied on the grounds of fraud.
A Supreme Court civil trial found that the warehouse director was aware of his father’s plan to destroy the building.
The father, who fled to Russia the day after the fire, died of a heart attack before the trial began.
Mark Pellegrino is a Certified Fire Investigator with 14 years of experience in fire and explosion investigation.
Mark has a motor vehicle examination endorsement through the IAAI-CFI (V) and a Senior Associate (CIP) of ANZIIF.
Mark holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Forensic Investigation, a Diploma of General Insurance, a Certificate IV in Building and Construction, and a Basic Fire Debris Analysis Certificate.
Since 2010, Mark has specialised in forensic fire and explosion investigations, examining over 1,200 incidents involving structures, vehicles, machinery, and watercraft.