Carlson to become interim leader of Rockford Fire Department as search continues for new chief

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Division Chief Brian Carlson has been named as the new interim fire chief for the Rockford Fire Department, in its effort to replace outgoing Chief Michelle Pankow.

Earlier this month, Pankow was appointed as the Illinois State Fire Marshall.

Carlson has served with the fire department for 27 years and has been the Division Chief of Administration.

He will step into the Interim Chief role on July 9th.

According to the rules of the Fire and Police Commission, which appointed Carlson, interim chiefs are not eligible to apply for the permanent position.

The commission is still working to conduct a search for the next permanent fire chief.