Modesto's new fire chief is a familiar face

Modesto's new fire chief is a familiar face, both within the fire department and around the city. Kevin Wise has been promoted to the official position of interim fire chief. He has held this position since August. Wise has worked at Modesto Fire since 2022, but his roots in the city run deep. “It’s an honor, it’s a privilege, to serve the citizens of Modesto and our surrounding areas where I grew up,” Wise said. “My family has been here since the late 1800s.” One of his top priorities is expanding the fire department's paramedic program, so every engine has a paramedic. Wise also wants to replace the Modesto Fire Station 1 and ensure firefighters have the resources they need. need to serve communities. Wise previously served as deputy chief of the Fremont Fire Department and chief of the Ceres Fire Department. For more on California's top news stories, click here | Download our app.