Suffolk's Newest Fire Investigator Has A Nose For Arson

Meet Coast, an energetic 18-month-old Yellow Labrador Retriever who's officially joined Suffolk County's Fire Rescue and Emergency Services as its newest accelerant detection dog.

Her mission? Sniff out evidence of suspicious fires and help investigators track down potential arsonists.

Coast completed an intensive 12-week training program with the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives after arriving through the Guide Dog Foundation.

She's the ninth Labrador to join Suffolk County's accelerant detection program since 1991.

The county's newest four-legged investigator made her public debut at the Center Moriches Fire Department's open house, showing off her detection skills alongside handler Fire Marshal Dave Schaffauer.

The duo completed six weeks of intensive training together before reporting for duty.

“Suffolk County has enjoyed a thirty-five-year partnership with ATF, supplying us with these valuable dogs—at no cost to the County—that help keep our residents safe,” said Fire Rescue Commissioner Rudy Sunderman.

Coast joins fellow canine investigator Jimmy and his handler, Fire Marshal Aaron Rombough.

Together, the two teams help investigate suspicious fires from Melville to Montauk, assisting Suffolk's Arson Squad, East End investigators and neighboring agencies.

Their specialized noses can detect traces of accelerants that could provide crucial evidence in fire investigations.

The teams also make regular appearances at community fire safety events, where residents can meet the dogs and learn about their work.

“We always appreciate when we have the opportunity to add such a highly trained team member to our ranks,” Sunderman said.

The county's canine teams also assist Nassau County, federal investigators and other agencies when requested, extending their reach well beyond Suffolk's borders.