KANKAKEE, Illinois - Kankakee Mayor Christopher W. Curtis in coordination with Fire Chief Bryan La Roche announce the appointment of Christopher A. Salazar as the new Deputy Chief of the Kankakee Fire Department. Captain Salazar will be presented to the Alderpersons at the City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 for consent to the position.

Captain Salazar has 24 years of fire service experience and has served with the Kankakee Fire Department since 2006. Captain Salazar has served in a variety of roles within the Kankakee Fire Department, including Firefighter/Paramedic, Lieutenant, Captain, Shift Commander, Fire Prevention, and Training Officer.

Mayor Christopher W. Curtis commented, "Captain Salazar is a proven leader within the Kankakee Fire Department and throughout the region. His experience, professionalism, operational skills, and interaction with residents within the community make him the optimal choice for Deputy Fire Chief of the Kankakee Fire Department. We are excited and confident that he will continue to strengthen the department and serve our community with integrity and distinction ."

Fire Chief Bryan LaRoche commented, "Captain Salazar is extremely dedicated to the fire service, and he is highly respected amongst his peers. He is a great fit for the position of the Deputy Chief and he will do great things to move the fire department forward."

Salazar holds numerous Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) certifications, including Advanced Firefighter, Fire Officer II, Instructor Ill , Training Program Manager, Fire Inspector I, and Fire Department Health and Safety Officer, along with multiple technical rescue and hazardous materials certifications.

He is a licensed Paramedic, holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Fire Service Administration, and is currently enrolled in a Master's program in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Fire/Rescue Executive Leadership.

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