City Council confirms Dr. Reginald Freeman to be next Minneapolis Fire Chief

The Minneapolis City Council today voted to confirm Mayor Jacob Frey's nomination of Dr. Reginald Freeman as the 19 th Chief of the Minneapolis Fire Department, the third African American leader to hold this office.

Freeman will focus on firefighter wellness, recruitment and retention, and continue the modernization of the department to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

"As our city continues to grow and face new challenges, we need leaders who can strengthen our institutions, support the people who serve, and deliver results for residents. Freeman has a proven record of doing exactly that, and I'm confident he will lead the Minneapolis Fire Department with professionalism, accountability, and a deep commitment to service," said Mayor Frey. "I'm grateful to the City Council for confirming Chief Freeman and look forward to the work ahead as he helps lead our fire department into its next chapter."

Freeman's extensive leadership experience in fire and rescue services, emergency management, and public safety is evidenced by his leadership of major departments in Oakland, California, and Hartford, Connecticut, as well as serving in a variety of executive roles across the United States and internationally. Throughout his career, he has focused on advancing organizational excellence, supporting and developing firefighters, strengthening partnerships with the communities served, and ensuring departments are prepared to address emerging public safety challenges.

"I want to thank Mayor Frey, the City Council, and the residents of this great City for entrusting me to lead the Minneapolis Fire Department into its next chapter. I do not take this responsibility lightly," said Freeman. "We will lead by example, support our community, and I will ensure that each of our firehouses plays an active role in the fabric of the neighborhoods they serve. We are committed to keeping every resident and community member safe. As we build meaningful relationships with businesses, schools, faith leaders, and community organizations, this department will continue to reflect the community we protect. My family and I are excited to now call Minneapolis home, and I can't wait to get started."

About the Minneapolis Fire Department

Freeman will take the helm of one of the country's premier fire departments during a pivotal period for emergency response and public safety. The department operates 19 fire stations across Minneapolis and has become one of the most diverse fire departments in the United States, with nearly one-third of its sworn personnel identifying as people of color-a reflection of decades of progress toward creating a department that reflects the community it serves. The department responds to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous, and other rescue operations. The department also houses the City's Behavioral Crisis Response (BCR) unit. It also strengthens the community through fire prevention education, school programs, Safe Station services, and firehouses where residents can meet firefighters and learn about fire safety. The department plays an active role in the State of Minnesota's Emergency Task Force. By honoring its history, embracing diversity, and building strong relationships with the people it serves, the Minneapolis Fire Department continues to make a lasting impact on the safety, trust, and well-being of the Minneapolis community.

"Dr. Freeman is a leader who values firefighters, creates opportunities for others, and measures success not by personal recognition, but by the growth and success of those around him," said Commissioner Todd Barnette, Minneapolis Office of Community Safety. "Minneapolis is gaining a leader of integrity, vision and character whose values will strengthen the Minneapolis Fire Department, the City and this community for years to come. I also want to thank Interim Chief Melanie Rucker for her steady leadership during Operation Metro Surge and throughout our national search for a permanent chief. Under her guidance, the department continued to move forward while maintaining the highest level of service for our residents. The Minneapolis Fire Department is in exceptional hands, and our community is safer because of the dedicated leaders and firefighters who answer the call every day."

Freeman's career

Freeman has built a long and distinguished career focused on building a positive culture, workforce development, community engagement, and accountability. Throughout his career, he has led major emergency service operations, managed complex public safety challenges, and advanced large-scale emergency response initiatives both nationally and internationally.

Freeman currently serves as the Executive Director of Fire and Emergency Medical Services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. After beginning his fire services career as a in his native southern Mississippi, he has also served as:

• Fire Chief for the City of Oakland, California

• Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director for the City of Hartford, Connecticut

• Civilian Fire Chief for the U.S. Department of Defense in Iraq

Freeman replaces former Chief Bryan Tyner, who retired at the end of 2025 after 30 years of service. Melanie Rucker has served as interim chief since Jan. 1, 2026.

Freeman will be sworn into office in the coming weeks.

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