Fire marshals have conducted a number of significant investigations , including the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire of 1911 . They investigate insurance fraud involving arson , and more recently , potential terrorism . They also function as expert witnesses in arson cases . At times New York fire marshals work undercover and conduct surveillance operations . They also coordinate with federal , state and local law enforcement because arsonists are frequently involved in other criminal activity as well , and some investigations , like the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center , require multiple agencies ' skills
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire
Fire marshal