Illinois

NICHOLAS THOMPSON : IAAI/CFI – Milan, IL

Nick Thompson is a Certified Fire Investigator (CFI) and Evidence Collection Technician (ECT) through the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI), and a Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator (CFEI) through the National Association of Fire Investigators, with current memberships. He has over 20 years of experience in the fire industry in various positions, including his current position as Battalion Chief and Fire/Explosion Investigator. He is currently completing his Master’s Degree at Oklahoma State University in Arson, Explosives, Firearms, and Tool Marks Investigation.

LUCIO TORRES : NAFI/CFEI, IAAI/FIT – Danville IL

Lucio Torres is a Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator (CFEI) through the National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI) and a Fire Investigation Technician (FIT) through the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI). He is an active member of both organizations, adhering to the highest professional standards in the field of fire investigation. With over six years of experience in the fire service industry—including roles as a firefighter, fire investigator, EMT, and hazardous materials technician for the City of Danville—he brings a comprehensive and practical understanding of fire dynamics and scene analysis. His background in one of the region’s busiest departments ensures he is well-equipped to manage complex, high-pressure investigations with clarity and precision. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in public safety management from Southern Illinois University and is a proud military veteran.

T.J. AAGESEN: IAAI-CFI – Schaumburg, IL

T.J. Aagesen is a Certified Fire Investigator through the International Association of Arson Investigators. He has 15 years of experience in the fire service. T.J. has served as a firefighter, paramedic, and fire investigator for the Downers Grove Fire Department for the past 9 years. T.J. has been the Chairman of the Board of Fire and Police commissioners for the City of Elgin since, 2014. He previously served as a Fire Academy Instructor at Elgin Community College and is currently an Adjunct Professor of Fire Service Management at Southern Illinois University. He is a court qualified expert in the State of Illinois and currently serves as member of the Technical Committee for NFPA 140. T.J. Has a Bachelor’s of Fire Service Management and Administration and a Masters of Public Safety Management from Southern Illinois University.

DANIEL J. MELTON: IAAI-CFI – Rochester, IN

Daniel Melton is a Certified Fire Investigator through the International Association of Arson Investigators. Daniel has served with the Rochester Fire Department for over 20 years as a firefighter, an assistant chief, and an investigator and was most recently promoted to lieutenant. He has received several awards for his service with the Rochester Fire Department. In addition, Daniel has served as a volunteer firefighter for the Rochester Fire Department, a reserve deputy for the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department, and also volunteered as a member of the Special Operations Team for the Rochester Police Department. He is also a member of the International Association of Arson Investigators, Indiana Chapter.