ATF National Response Team Deploys to Denver

ATF National Response Team Deploys to Denver

DENVER - The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has deployed its National Response Team (NRT) to Denver to investigate a fire at an apartment building under construction.

The fire started on Friday, Jan. 2, and burned for several days with more than 100 firefighters responding to the five-alarm blaze. After consultation with local authorities, ATF's Denver Field Division requested support and assistance from the NRT to investigate the origin and cause of the fire.

"This fire threatened the safety of our community and injured a firefighter," said ATF Special Agent in Charge Chris Ashbridge. "The NRT is bringing federal resources and expertise to this complex investigation. It is a top priority for us because we understand the immense challenges this fire has created for residents and businesses."

The NRT consists of Special Agents, Special Agent Certified Fire Investigators, Special Agent Certified Explosives Specialists, Fire Protection Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Forensic Chemists, Intelligence Research Specialists, Digital Forensic Specialists, a Medic and an Ignitable Liquid or Explosive Detection K-9 with handler.

Since its inception in 1978, the NRT has responded to 943 incidents, including five activations this fiscal year. The NRT's rapid-response structure enables it to generally deploy within 24 hours, bringing in state-of-the-art technology, including unmanned aerial systems, 3-D scanning, forensic mapping and portable labs, to aid in fire and explosion 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 Palisades Fire:A major wildfire in early January 2025 in Los Angeles County, burned over 23,000 acres, devastating the Pacific Palisades.
• 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.

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.