Which of the following is NOT included in the element of gathering preliminary information?

The focus of gathering preliminary information in an investigative context generally involves collecting data that will help shape the understanding of the situation at hand. This includes various elements that provide foundational knowledge about the incident itself.

The type of incident gives crucial context about what has occurred, setting the stage for understanding the broader implications of the scenario. The source of the call typically refers to where the information originated, which is vital for assessing reliability and urgency. Likewise, noting the location and weather conditions can significantly affect the investigation's parameters, since these factors can influence the safety of the responders and the potential evidence available.

Witness behavior, while important, does not fall under the fundamental aspects of preliminary information gathering. Instead, it is more about analyzing the perspectives and reactions of people involved once the incident is being assessed or investigated. The behaviors of witnesses can help in understanding the dynamics at play, but they are not as critical for establishing the initial framework of the incident as are the other options listed. Therefore, it is reasonable to determine that witness behavior is not typically seen as a primary element of gathering preliminary information.