West Midlands chief fire officer found dead

In a statement issued by West Midlands Fire Service yesterday, the Chair of the fire authority confirmed that Chief Fire Officer Wayne Brown had been found dead at his home address. His death is not being treated as suspicious by West Midlands Police.

Greg Brackenridge, Chair of the authority, said, “we are devastated,” adding “All our thoughts and love are with his family, his friends and his colleagues.”

Wayne joined West Midlands Fire Service in 2019 after a long career in London Fire Brigade. and became Chief Fire Officer in January 2023. The London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe said he was “deeply sorry” to hear about Mr Brown’s death. “Wayne was a valued and respected colleague in the Brigade for over 20 years before joining West Midlands FRS.”

The National Fire Chiefs Council issued a statement. Its Chair, Mark Hardingham said, “We are deeply saddened about the death of Wayne Brown.

“Wayne was an outstanding leader in the fire and rescue service. He was a friend and colleague to those in leadership and frontline roles. His commitment, professionalism and passion for representing those who are under-represented in fire and rescue services never ceased and was remarkable. We thank him for his contribution to the fire and rescue service. His legacy and impact means he will never be forgotten.”

West Midlands Fire Service asks that his family and his colleagues are given time and space at this tragic time.