Laurel V. Mason, F-ABC
Principal/Laboratory Director
770-982-0210 Ext. 202
laurel@afalabs.com
Laurel is the Principal and Laboratory Director at Analytical Forensic Associates, where she founded and oversees the operation of a specialized forensic laboratory. Her work centers on the chemical analysis of ignitable liquids in fire debris — encompassing laboratory direction, results reporting, evidence preservation, and expert testimony. She also routinely performs additional chemical analyses of fire evidence, including the recovery and identification of vegetable oil residues, and provides litigation support through critical evaluation of other scientists’ reports, testimony, and data.
Laurel’s technical expertise spans a broad range of chemical and instrumental analyses, including GC/MS, FT-IR, and light microscopy. She conducts preliminary client consultations, assesses chemical interactions and reactions specific to fire losses, and maintains full responsibility for laboratory management, staff training, and quality assurance.
Since 1981, she has analyzed or supervised the analysis of more than 100,000 fire debris samples and has testified as an expert witness in over 100 criminal and civil matters in both federal and state courts across the United States.
Laurel holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Mercer University and is a certified Fellow in Fire Debris Analysis with the American Board of Criminalistics. She is an active member of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the Southern Association of Forensic Scientists, the International Association of Arson Investigators, NAFI, NFPA, ASTM, and the American Chemical Society. She is a past president of the Georgia IAAI chapter and has held numerous board positions within the origination. In recognition of her longstanding dedication to the Association and the broader fire investigation community, she has been honored with Life Membership.
Laurel is the author and co-author of several publications on fire debris analysis and has lectured extensively on evidence collection, preservation, and laboratory analysis. Outside of work, she enjoys time with family and friends, traveling with her husband, painting, and gardening.
Sara C. Bonner
Forensic Scientist
770-982-0210 Ext. 203
sara@afalabs.com
Sara is a Forensic Scientist at Analytical Forensic Associates, where she specializes in the preparation and analysis of fire evidence for the presence of ignitable liquids and vegetable oils. Her work requires expertise in sample collection, handling, and analysis, as well as proficiency in the operation, calibration, and maintenance of a wide range of analytical instruments. Sara has also played a key role in the development of the firm’s new state-of-the-art barcoded evidence tracking and management system. Alongside colleague Caitlyn, she has lectured on evidence collection, preservation, and laboratory analysis.
Sara is a member of the International Association of Arson Investigators and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. Sara is committed to upholding the standard of world-class service to the fire investigation community that Analytical Forensic Associates is known for.
Prior to joining AFA, Sara attended Columbus State University, where she served as a Peer Leader and Tutor and was selected for membership in the Beta Beta Beta Biology Honor Society. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Forensic Sciences.
Sara is actively involved in her community, including fundraising for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband Tyler and daughters Emma and Evelyn, as well as reading and outdoor activities.
Caitlyn Head, F-ABC
Forensic Scientist
770-982-0210 Ext. 201
caitlyn@afalabs.com
Caitlyn is a Forensic Scientist at Analytical Forensic Associates, where she specializes in the preparation and analysis of fire evidence for the presence of ignitable liquids and vegetable oils. Her work requires expertise in sample collection, handling, and analysis, as well as proficiency in the operation, calibration, and maintenance of a wide range of analytical instruments. Known for her exceptional organizational and analytical abilities, Caitlyn also brings a strong commitment to client service that sets her apart. Alongside colleague Sara, she lectures on evidence collection, preservation, and laboratory analysis.
Caitlyn is a member of the International Association of Arson Investigators and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.
Her passion for fire science began early, growing up as the daughter of a firefighter and fire investigator. Caitlyn earned a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science with a minor in Chemistry from the University of New Haven, where she worked as a teaching assistant in the Forensic Science Department and was an active member of the Forensic Science and Chemistry Club. She brings additional hands-on experience from laboratory internships focused on fire debris analysis.
Outside of work, Caitlyn enjoys football, reading, craft nights, and video games. She loves exploring new places and experiences with her husband, firefighter Mike Head, and their newest family member, Connor Joseph.
More than just a lab, the staff of Analytical Forensic Associates is honored to be a part of your fire investigation team.
