Oklahoma City announces Derrick Kiel as Fire Chief

Published on August 06, 2026

City Manager Craig Freeman announced today that Derrick Kiel has been selected as Oklahoma City's 22nd Fire Chief.

Kiel, who is currently the Deputy Chief of Support Service and Logistics, will succeed Chief Richard Kelley, who is retiring on Sept. 30, after nine years in the role and 35 years of distinguished service with the Oklahoma City Fire Department.

Kiel has served with the Oklahoma City Fire Department for 27 years and, when he begins his new role on Oct. 1, will become Oklahoma City's first Black Fire Chief.

“The extensive operational knowledge and leadership experience Chief Kiel has gained in his 27-year career made him an exceptional candidate for the role,” City Manager Craig Freeman said. “Combined with his strong emphasis on firefighter and community safety, he is well prepared to guide the department forward and serve our residents with excellence.”

Chief Kiel began his career with the Oklahoma City Fire Department on March 19, 1999. Throughout his career, he served in every rank.

As Fire Chief, Kiel will be responsible for a $225 million budget and 1,117 positions in four divisions: Administration, Fire Prevention, Operations and Support.

“I’m honored to lead the Oklahoma City Fire Department into its next chapter,” Kiel said. “Our firefighters are among the best in the nation, and my priority is to continue fostering a culture of exceptional service for our residents, employees and community partners. A healthy culture is built through clear expectations, transparent communication, accountability and leaders who model the values they expect from others.”

Kiel graduated from U.S. Grant High School and holds a bachelor's degree in organizational leadership from the University of Oklahoma.

Chief Kiel will report to Jason Ferbrache, one of Oklahoma City's three assistant city managers. They report to the City Manager, who is the chief administrative officer of the City's Council-Manager form of government.

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Media Contact
Battalion Chief Scott Douglas
(405) 316-6897
scott.douglas@okc.gov