Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell announced on Saturday the creation of a new investigative task force in response to the wildfires. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) will be leading the investigation to determine the origin and cause of the Palisades Fire.
The ATF's Los Angeles office stated in a tweet that certified fire investigators are already on the scene and will be collaborating with state and local investigators to uncover the cause of the tragic event. Additionally, the national response team that previously investigated the Maui wildfire is expected to join the investigation of the Palisades Fire, as requested by Los Angeles fire officials.
This specialized team will be focusing on identifying whether factors such as power line failures, arson, or other causes were involved in starting the blaze. Their expertise and resources will be crucial in determining the root cause of the fire and preventing future incidents.