Casey Wilson appointed as permanent chief of Merced Fire Department

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- The City of Merced has appointed Casey Wilson as the new chief of the Merced Fire Department.

Wilson has been the interim chief since 2024 and has over two decades of experience.

"Casey has demonstrated exceptional leadership as Interim Chief, and his proven ability to manage complex operations, budgets, and community partnerships makes him the ideal choice to lead the Merced Fire Department into the future," said City Manager, Scott McBride.

Earlier this year, under Wilson's leadership, the Merced Fire Department celebrated a new fire squad vehicle.

It marked the first expansion of the department's frontline response fleet in 65 years, strengthening the ability to protect and serve a growing Merced community.

"Serving as Interim Fire Chief has been an honor, and I am grateful for the trust placed in me to continue leading this incredible department," said Wilson in a press release.

Wilson officially begins his new role today.