From entry-level firefighter to interim leader, Chief Raymond Hill’s career in Fort Worth is coming to an end.

FORT WORTH, Texas — Fort Worth Fire Chief Raymond Hill is retiring on Sept. 1, ending a career of more than three decades with the city.

Hill joined the Fort Worth Fire Department as a firefighter in December 1994, advancing through every rank before being promoted to assistant chief of Educational and Logistical Services in 2018.



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The Fort Worth City Council unanimously appointed Hill as interim fire chief on Oct. 28, 2025, following the resignation of former Fire Chief Jim Davis. Davis stepped down after being placed on administrative leave during a personnel investigation, with the city paying him $99,000 under a separation agreement.

During his tenure leading the department, Hill oversaw a major operational transition as the fire department assumed full responsibility for emergency medical services. Under his leadership, average EMS response times dropped from nearly 12.5 minutes to approximately 8.5 minutes over the past year, according to the City of Fort Worth.

Throughout his career, Hill managed key operations, including recruit and in-service training, the Office of Emergency Management, health and wellness, fire apparatus services, and the Fire Alarm Office.

“Chief Hill has dedicated more than 30 years to serving the residents of Fort Worth with integrity, professionalism and unwavering commitment,” said Assistant City Manager William Johnson. “His leadership during the City’s transition to a fire-based EMS system has transformed emergency response and positioned the department for continued success. On behalf of the City, I want to thank Chief Hill for his extraordinary service and wish him all the best on his well-earned retirement.”

Reflecting on his time with the department, Hill expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments.

“It has been an honor to serve alongside the dedicated men and women of the Fort Worth Fire Department over the past 30 years,” Hill said. “Together, we’ve strengthened this department and achieved meaningful progress for the community we serve. I will always be proud of what we’ve accomplished and have every confidence the department will continue to build on that success.”

The City of Fort Worth plans to launch a national search for its next fire chief in the coming weeks.