Mayor Cherelle Parker last week announced the appointment of Jeffrey Thompson as her choice to be the next commissioner of the Philadelphia Fire Department.
Effective immediately, Thompson assumes the fire commissioner position, succeeding Acting Commissioner Craig Murphy upon his retirement. Murphy served in the fire commissioner’s role since January, when former Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel resigned to transition into the managing director position under the Parker administration.
“I’m thrilled to announce that one of Philly’s own will be joining the Parker administration as the next fire commissioner,” Parker said. “I believe we have found and appointed exactly who we need to lead our Fire Department – Jeffrey Thompson. Under his leadership, our medics and firefighters will continue to provide dedicated service to those who live, work and play in Philadelphia.”
Thompson, 59, a native Philadelphian raised in Germantown, joined the Philadelphia Fire Department in 1989 as a member of Cadet Class 162. He has worked at stations all across the city during his 35-year career with the Fire Department, including more than two decades with the “North Philly Cowboys” – serving as a firefighter, lieutenant, captain and battalion chief with Engine 50, Ladder 12 and Battalion 8, at Park Avenue and Cambria Street.
Thompson has also held positions as executive chief (under Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers), adjunct instructor at the Fire Academy, special investigations officer, deputy fire commissioner (planning) and first deputy fire commissioner (operations). Thompson is married with two adult daughters. His father retired from the Fire Department in 1988 after 25 years of service.
Thompson said he was humbled by the mayor’s confidence in his abilities to lead the Philadelphia Fire Department.
“I am honored to join the Parker administration and lead our brave medics and firefighters with unwavering dedication and a commitment to safety for all,” he said. “Together, we will continue to protect our city, support our communities and uphold the proud tradition of service that defines Philadelphia’s bravest.” ••
