London, Kentucky, Fire Department Leaders Ousted Amid Misconduct Allegations; New Chief Appointed
Mayor Tracie Handley of London, Kentucky, has fired two top fire officials, Chief Donnie Hale and Assistant Chief Brandon Wagers, following allegations of misconduct and policy failures. The terminations occurred on Wednesday, with Wagers accused of pulling a fire alarm during a city council meeting in December 2025 when no fire was present. Chief Hale was dismissed for failing to lead during the incident and for not holding Wagers accountable, among other reasons. Mayor Handley cited concerns over potential liability issues for the city due to these actions. The fire department is also reportedly under investigation by the Kentucky Fire Commission for training deficiencies. In response to these developments, Marc Rudder, who has three decades of experience as a fire chief and director of training at the Kentucky Fire Commission, has been appointed as the new chief of the London Fire Department. Mayor Handley expressed her goal to steer London away from controversy and restore proper city operations.
