New Fire Chief Named In Prince William County By Supervisors

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VA — A new fire chief is coming to Prince William County effective May 1, the Prince William Board of County Supervisors announced on Tuesday. Thomas LaBelle will be new head of the Prince William County Fire and Rescue System.

LaBelle most recently worked in Henrico County as a deputy chief. A county news release noted that LaBelle's work focused on community risk reduction. He also worked as a division chief in Albemarle County managing their volunteer fire departments.

"Chief LaBelle’s experience in public safety speaks to his understanding and insights in managing a combination fire system and building community relationships through engagement and public service,” Chair At-Large Ann Wheeler said in a news release. “We look forward to him joining us in Prince William County.”

The Prince William County fire system includes full-time professionals with the Department of Fire and Rescue and volunteers with eight volunteer fire departments. The system includes 722 employees and 391 volunteers, the county said.

"I have spent my entire life supporting fire and EMS personnel, fire departments and the communities they protect,” LaBelle said. “I’m excited to now be able to serve the Prince William Fire and Rescue System and the Prince William community. I truly believe that the career and volunteer workforce in the county’s Fire and Rescue System are outstanding, and I am humbled to have the opportunity to work side by side with its members."