David M. Baker, IAAI-CFI

Fire Consultant

Forensic Services

Cleveland

Background

Mr. David Baker is a graduate of the Cleveland Fire Academy and the Cleveland Police Academy. He is a Certified Fire Investigator through the International Association of Arson Investigators and has over 29 years of experience with the fire service.

Mr. Baker started his public safety career as a Fire/Medic in 1994 with the Cleveland Fire Department. Upon his promotion to Fire Investigator, Mr.Baker performed the origin and cause investigations of fires and explosions, witness and suspect interviews, evidence processing, and scene-reconstruction/ignition experimentation when needed to complete an investigation.

As a lead fire investigator, Mr. Bakers’ forensic experience includes investigating more than 200 fires involving fire origin and causation in residential, commercial, and industrial structures; vehicles; and marine vessels. His expertise includes management of fire scene cause and origin analysis, evidence and data collection, investigative interviews, scene photography, and live fire testing scenarios.

Education and Certifications

• Certified Fire Investigator: International Association of Arson Investigators (2023)

• Ohio Peace Officer Certification: Cleveland Division of Police Academy (2020)

• Firefighter II: Ohio (1994)

• Memberships: International Association of Arson Investigators