Real-Life Decision Making -- Solution
You decide the fire was accidental.
Is it possible that rats could have caused the damage? Yes. If rats chewed through the exterior of the hose, the interior sheathing could have fractured. That would have caused the engine to overheat and then ignite the nest.
This might be the case if the car was not driven very often.
It's important to remember that there are a lot of variables you must consider when making this important decision. Arson investigation is a stressful occupation. Serious decisions like this are made daily.
Even when you may feel certain that you've made the right decision, there can still be room for doubt.
"The case may go to the grand jury, and each person involved will be called, questioned, and cross-examined," says investigator Roy Paul.
This sometimes involves going up against lawyers who will call in someone who will try to disprove your findings.