UK's first Black Chief Fire Officer Wayne Brown found dead at his home

24 January 2024 , 21:59

482     0

West Midlands Fire Service chief fire officer Wayne Brown who has been found dead at his home (Image: PA)

The chief officer at one of the UK's biggest fire brigades has been found dead at home, officials have confirmed.

Wayne Brown, from West Midlands Fire Service - the UK's first Black Chief Fire Officer - was sadly found dead on Wednesday morning. A spokesperson for the service his death was not being treated as suspicious.

Greg Brackenridge, Chair of the West Midlands Fire & Rescue Authority, said in a statement on Wednesday evening: "We are devastated to report that our Chief Fire Officer, Wayne Brown, was this morning (24 January) found dead at his home address. The death is not being treated as suspicious by West Midlands Police.

"All our thoughts and love are with his family, his friends and his colleagues. We ask everyone that his family and his colleagues are given time and space at this tragic time."

It's understood Mr Brown had been in the top position for a year since he was promoted from Deputy Chief Officer in January last year.

Firefighters offered £1,000 a shift to cross picket line during upcoming strikes

Susie Beever