Murrieta Welcomes New Fire Chief

MURRIETA, CA — There's a new leader at the helm of Murrieta's fire department. But the 32-year veteran firefighter is a familiar face to Murrieta Fire & Rescue. David Lantzer has officially taken on the role of Fire Chief, after serving the last four years as Deputy Fire Chief.

Lantzer takes over the role that was previously occupied by former Chief Scott Ferguson, who retired in July.

"I am thrilled to continue collaborating with the great team that we’ve assembled over the past few years," Lantzer said in a news release. "And I’m glad to lead the Department as we move forward with a myriad of important new programs and services that will allow us to keep up with changing technology, address deferred maintenance and invest in top quality services for our community."

Under Lantzer's leadership, the department expects to soon add 12 additional positions via funds from Murrieta's one-cent sales tax coming from Measure T. Those include two Medic Patrol units, an emergency medical dispatching (EMD) program, and Pulse Point mapping "to improve responses to cardiac events," according to the agency. A new engine is also expected next year.

"The community has shown confidence in us with the passage of Measure T," Lantzer said. "They recognize the importance of City services--and public safety in particular. That vote speaks volumes, and we will deliver."

Lantzer first came to Murrieta in 2015, having been the fire chief in Hermosa Beach prior to that. He's also been the chief at the city of Holtville and captain in Calexico.

Murrieta, though, immediately felt like home, he said. He now lives here with his wife of 30 years.

"There’s a cohesion you see with emergency responders and military personnel because of the nature of their jobs," he said. "For us, that cohesion includes support staff and even residents. We sincerely care about each other and our community."