What should investigators do when they find evidence that seems unrelated to the case?

When investigators encounter evidence that appears to be unrelated to the case, it is essential to document it thoroughly even if it is not immediately relevant. This practice is crucial because seemingly unrelated evidence may later provide context or lead to new insights about the case. Documenting the evidence preserves a detailed record, which is invaluable if its significance becomes apparent in the future or if new information emerges that connects it back to the investigation.

Collecting all types of evidence, regardless of its perceived relevance, can lead to clutter and complicate the investigative process. However, merely ignoring it or dismissing it as unimportant without documentation would mean losing potential leads that could have been useful later on. It is through careful documentation that investigators maintain a comprehensive view of the scene, ensuring that all potential information is accounted for, which can be critical in arson investigations where motives and connections are not always straightforward.