Hartsfield named acting chief

KXII
By KXII Staff
Published: Oct. 19, 2022 at 1:46 PM GMT-6

SHERMAN, Texas (KXII) - The City of Sherman is officially looking for new leadership in its fire department after the departure of Chief Danny Jones and Assistant Chief Chris Olson.

While the city works to fill the vacancies, Sherman Fire Marshal Billy Hartsfield will serve as acting chief until a permanent replacement is named.

Hartsfield has served with the Sherman Fire-Rescue for the past 15 years, the last four of which he has served as Fire Marshal.

“To lead this great group of firefighters and paramedics is an honor,” said Hartsfield. “It’s an exceptional honor to be able to be mentored by somebody like Danny Jones for many many years was a great honor.”

According to the city, Jones put in a retirement notice on Tuesday, which came after being placed on paid administrative leave during an unknown third-party investigation back in September.

The city said to its knowledge, his leave did not involve allegations of criminal action.

News 12 asked the Sherman city spokesperson and Hartsfield about the subject of the investigation, but both responded they didn’t know.

According to the city, Jones will be working with the city manager on transition plans for the department over the next several weeks.

“I appreciate Chief Jones’ commitment to the community, and I sincerely thank him for 33 years of service to the City of Sherman,” said Sherman City Manager Robby Hefton. “Chief Jones has led with integrity and compassion during his long tenure here.”

Former Fire Chief Danny Jones sent the following statement to KXII:

“God has blessed me with the opportunity to serve the citizens of Sherman and has allowed me to serve with the greatest city staff and the absolute best Fire Department staff ever assembled for the past 32+ years. He has now closed this door and Cindy and I wait patiently for Him to open the next opportunity. I pray God continues to bless the City of Sherman and the members of Sherman Fire Rescue.”

Sherman City Manager Robby Hefton also said he accepted Assistant Fire Chief Chris Olson’s resignation on October 14.

Regarding Olson, Hefton added, “Assistant Chief Olson has been an asset during his time with the City. I’d like to thank Chris for his 18 years of service to the city’s residents, businesses, and visitors. The City of Sherman wishes him and his family success as he moves on to the next phase of his career.”