Mississippi Appoints Chief Deputy Fire Marshal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 17, 2026 MEDIA CONTACT Beth Reiss Communications Director beth.reiss@mid.ms.gov 601‐359‐2403 Kevin Butler Appointed Chief Deputy Fire Marshal JACKSON, Miss. – State Fire Marshal and Commissioner of Insurance Mike Chaney has appointed Kevin D. Butler as Chief Deputy Fire Marshal, overseeing the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO), effective March 9, 2026. In this role, Butler will supervise more than 50 employees and run the day‐to‐day operations of the SFMO. He served as a Deputy State Fire Marshal for the Northern and Central Districts from April 2010 until he was appointed Chief Deputy. In that role, Butler supervised investigations into fires and explosions. He also has experience as an emergency manager, 911 coordinator, code inspector, investigator, polygraph examiner, and as an unmanned aircraft system operator. “Kevin is a dedicated and experienced fire investigation professional with over 25 years in law enforcement, criminal and civil fire investigations, and fire code enforcement. He has a proven record of accomplishment in fire scene analysis, evidence handling, arson detection, and public safety leadership, with extensive technical training and professional recognition. We’re lucky to have him,” said Chaney. Butler was named a Top Cop Award recipient in 2012, 2013, and 2020. He is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi and Jones Junior College. After spending most of his life in Smith County, Butler now lives in Lauderdale County. He is married to Tandee Butler and the two are blessed with four children and eight grandchildren. ###