James Horton named Fort Worth’s interim fire chief

James Horton named Fort Worth's interim fire chief

Published on August 25, 2026

Assistant Fire Chief James Horton, a 28-year veteran of the Fort Worth Fire Department, was appointed interim fire chief Tuesday by the Fort Worth City Council.

Horton brings nearly three decades of experience leading within a large, complex urban fire department that continues to evolve alongside one of the nation's fastest-growing cities. His career spans fire operations, administration, fire prevention and investigation, emergency medical services, strategic planning and organizational growth.

Horton will serve as chief on an interim basis following the upcoming retirement of Interim Chief Raymond Hill on Sept. 1. The City plans to conduct a nationwide search for a permanent fire chief.

"Chief Horton is a trusted leader who brings a depth of knowledge and decades of valued experience to this interim role," said Assistant City Manager William Johnson. "His extensive background will provide strong leadership for the department during this transition."

Before being named interim chief, Horton served as assistant fire chief. He served as deputy fire chief from 2022 to September 2025.

During his leadership tenure, Horton served on the executive committee overseeing the integration of MedStar's ambulance services into the fire department, a significant expansion of the department's emergency medical services. He helped

secure $34.4 million in a 2026 bond election to construct a new fire station in a high-growth area and replace an existing station. In addition, he served on a staffing committee that resulted in adding 70 new sworn firefighter positions and six new civilian positions.

Horton holds a Ph.D. in urban and public administration from the University of Texas, Arlington; a master's degree in public administration from the University of North Texas; and a bachelor's degree in emergency management and disaster planning from UNT.

Photo: Interim Fire Chief James Horton

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