Lucy joined Hawkins in April 2025, based at our Bristol office, and specialises in fire and explosion investigation. She has experience in investigating white goods fires, plant and electrical incidents, and arson, in both domestic and commercial properties.
Graduating with a First Class degree in Forensic Science, Lucy has experience working as an analytical scientist in the pharmaceutical sector, specialising in spectroscopic techniques. She also held various roles with the Avon and Somerset Constabulary, including Crime Scene Manager and DNA Laboratory Analyst, investigating volume, serious and major crime scenes, often on high-profile cases. She also has experience as a forensic fire Investigator, working on crimes involving arson, endangerment of life and murder.
We spent some time finding out more about Lucy and what led her to a career as a fire and explosion expert with Hawkins.
What motivated you to become a forensic investigator?
Even as a child I was extremely interested in the minutiae of life and had a tenacious need to understand what I didn’t understand. Mixed with a love of science and people, this evolved into a perfect opportunity to become a Forensic Investigator. I am allowed the opportunity to apply scientific knowledge and facts to unknown situations to get to the bottom of what has happened, ultimately to assist the criminal justice system.
How did you get into your chosen field?
I started out by studying Forensic Science at university and quickly realised this was the subject for me. I also had several members of my family working within the Police at the time, so the natural progression was to work within the criminal justice sector. Fire investigation was where I was most happy and challenged. Through studying a master’s degree in Forensic Investigation of Explosions and Explosives, I moved into the civil sector where I could develop and hone my skills in this niche area. For me, fire investigation has always been the most challenging aspect of forensic science. Take a scene, set it on fire and try and ascertain what happened, there is no challenge like it.
What attributes do you consider important for a successful forensic investigation career?
Being a forensic investigator takes a certain type of person; I would say that all forensic investigators say the same thing! You need to be methodical and logical in your approach, ensure you work with attention to detail and a real passion and care for what you do. Tenacity and determination are also extremely important attributes – especially when digging through fire debris on a cold winter’s day! In a civil scenario, understanding the commercial and financial context to an investigation and your client’s requirements is also a vital skill.
“For me, fire investigation has always been the most challenging aspect of forensic science. Take a scene, set it on fire and try and ascertain what happened, there is no challenge like it.”
What’s the most interesting case that you have worked on?
Throughout my career I have been very lucky to be exposed to both the criminal and civil world. In the criminal sector I had the chance to work on a wide range of high-profile incidents, which is a very dynamic and time sensitive environment. Within the civil sector I have particularly enjoyed investigating incidents involving lithium-ion batteries, as I wrote my thesis for my Masters in this area. I had the opportunity to investigate a large-scale loss involving thermal runaway in an electric scooter. This was a great opportunity to apply my knowledge and research in a real-world investigation, which I found fascinating.
What’s the most difficult case that you have been involved with?
Investigating cases involving children and vulnerable people has always been challenging for me. Mental strength, emotional intelligence and a professional approach are pivotal when dealing with these scenarios. Having a strong network of family, friends and colleagues makes involvement with such incidents more bearable. Knowing you have had a significant impact on an investigation and the subsequent prosecution is an extremely rewarding aspect of such work.
What makes you proud in your role as a forensic investigator?
Completing my master’s degree in Forensic Investigation of Explosives and Explosions was a proud moment for me. It took me a considerable amount of time, due to having my two children during the process. There were a lot of very late nights, but it was worth it in the end. I also received a Police commendation for my involvement in a murder investigation, for which I provided evidence in Crown Court. I felt very privileged to be able to be involved in that case, and having my input recognised was a real ‘take stock’ moment in my career.
What do you love most about what you do?
Every day is different! I get to wake up every morning and encounter something new. Technology and fire investigation in general is a forever evolving field which challenges me and keeps me constantly learning and striving. There isn’t a chance to get bored in this industry. I also get to have a good mixture of the application of science whilst having a client facing role giving me the best of both worlds.
“Technology and fire Investigation in general is a forever evolving field which challenges me and keeps me constantly learning and striving. There is no chance to get bored in this industry.“
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Working in an environment with some of the brightest minds in industry. I feel very lucky to be part of a team of people, both in my local office of Bristol and the wider company, who are so passionate about what they do. The welcome I have received from the team has been fantastic and I can’t wait to expand my knowledge in such a creative and experienced environment.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about your line of work?
That it is glamorous! As soon as anyone sees the title ‘Forensics’ they seem to think of ‘CSI Miami’! I spend most of my time in overalls, digging through burnt debris rather than sipping margaritas by a pool.
What advice would you give to somebody setting out on their career to be a forensic investigator?
It is achievable if you are willing to work hard. Forensics has become an extremely competitive business area, therefore sometimes it can be hard to ‘get your foot on the ladder’. Don’t rely solely on your education, you need to have practical experience too. The perfect combination of practical and academic experience (‘pracademic’) will set you apart. Put yourself out there and use your network to gain that experience.
What differentiates Hawkins from other forensic investigation/consultancy firms?
Hawkins is a fantastic place to work, and I feel very proud to be part of the team. The ability to respond to incidents quickly, usually same or next day, partnered with leading industry experts with a huge depth and breadth of knowledge, makes Hawkins unlike any other firm.
“Hawkins is a fantastic place to work, and I feel very proud to be part of the team.“
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
I am very sociable so love my friends and family. I have 2 young children and spending time with them is important to me. As an office we have discussed running the Bristol 10K next year, so trying to squeeze in some training to be ready for that is also on the list of things that keep me busy.
What’s the top destination on your must-visit list and why?
I spent 3 weeks in Japan, travelling, hiking and eating lots of very good food. I am determined to return, whether for pleasure or business. International travel is something I am passionate about and hope to do more of in a working capacity in the future.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Food, wine and coffee. Wherever I go I am always determined to discover the best coffee in town. Finding local and regional food is also one of the best parts of a trip for me.
What is one song or artist that you are embarrassed to admit you like?
Not sure if I should be embarrassed or not but I secretly love Dolly Parton. ‘Jolene’ is an absolute classic for me!
If you would like Lucy or another Hawkins expert from any other discipline to investigate a case or present to your organisation, please contact us.
