The Metro Arson Strike Team (MAST) is called if an incident involves a suspicious fire or explosive devices.

MAST was formed in 1980 in response to a growing arson problem in the city, as evidenced by the devastating fires at Balboa Park's Old Globe Theatre and Aerospace Museum in 1978.

MAST investigators are cross-trained to achieve expertise in both /fire/explosives investigation and police procedure. Fire investigators are peace officers, have powers of arrest, and are armed.

Staffing is arranged so that the City of San Diego has coverage for fire investigations and critical explosives and bombing incidents 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.

The Metro Arson Strike Team is staffed by:

• San Diego Fire-Rescue Department
• San Diego Police Department
• U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms - ATF
• U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation - FBI

In addition, MAST utilizes a variety of specialized equipment in examining fire scenes and conducting explosives related operations. One of the unique resources is Andros, the bomb disposal robot.

MAST responds to incidents fitting these criteria:

Fire Related

• Incendiary or suspicious cause in structures
• Estimated property loss of $25,000 or more
• Vehicle fire with a suspicious or undetermined cause
• Serious injury or death has occurred (excluding traffic collisions)
• Part of an identified arson series
• Grass or rubbish involved and there is a known suspect or suspect information
• Caused by a juvenile with prior fire setting history or uncooperative parents
• Suspect in custody or information likely to lead to an arrest is available
• Any situation in which the incident commander believes a response is desirable

Explosives Related (See Bomb Squad)

• Found bombs, munitions, suspected bombs, and hoax devices
• Explosions
• Evaluation of suspicious items
• SWAT Critical Incidents (when requested)
• Dignitary protection operations (when requested)
• Routine ammunition and fireworks recoveries