Why is gathering witness statements important in LODD investigations?

Gathering witness statements is crucial in Line of Duty Death (LODD) investigations primarily to understand the sequence of events that led to the incident. Witnesses can provide firsthand accounts of what occurred, which can help investigators piece together a timeline and clarify the circumstances surrounding the event. This information is vital for developing an accurate narrative of the incident, identifying factors that may have contributed to the outcome, and recognizing any procedural or safety lapses. Understanding the sequence of events allows for a comprehensive analysis of the situation and is essential in preventing similar tragedies in the future.

While verifying times of incidents, assessing firefighter training levels, and documenting equipment used are also important aspects of an investigation, the sequence of events is central to understanding how all these elements interacted during the incident. Having a clear sequence allows for a more thorough investigation, leading to better recommendations for improvement and safety protocols in the fire service.