Long Beach Fire Chief Announces Retirement

LONG BEACH, CA — Long Beach Fire Chief Xavier Espino announced his retirement on Thursday after nearly 37 years of service.

Espino began his career with Long Beach Fire in 1986 and has served as Fire Chief since 2018. His last day as Chief will be Dec. 30th.

"I have been blessed to serve as a firefighter for the Long Beach Fire Department for nearly 37 years; the past four years as the Fire Chief. It has been my honor to protect the residents who call Long Beach home, the workforce who keep Long Beach running, and the visitors who enjoy our beautiful City," said Chief Espino. "In this, our 125th Anniversary, we have proven our resilience. Though the past four years have been fraught with extremely trying issues, we have responded with dedication and resolve and find ourselves stronger for the struggle. I am personally indebted to the men and women of the Long Beach Fire Department for their selfless service and dedication to the mission."

During his time as Fire Chief, Espino promoted the department's first female Chief Officer, restored Fire Engine 17, dedicated the LBFD Captain David Rosa Regional Training Center, unveiled the new Police/Fire Memorial at the Long Beach Civic Center and revived the LBFD Meritorious Awards Ceremony after a 15-year hiatus.

Espino also led the department through the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic and also to become one of the first West Coast cities to launch a Moblie Stroke Program.

“Chief Espino spent his entire career to serving our community,” said City Manager Tom Modica. “We are extremely grateful for his leadership, professionalism and ability to motivate personnel even during the most challenging of circumstances. I wish him all the best during his well-deserved retirement and quality time with his family.”

Espino currently serves as the President of the Los Angeles Area Fire Chiefs Association, Regional US&R Task Force Sponsoring Agency Chief Representative and is a member of the California Metro Chiefs and International Metro Chiefs Association.

After retiring, Espino said he plans to spend more time with his family and friends including his wife and two adult children.

“Chief Espino embodies what it means to be a leader in public service,” said Mayor Robert Garcia. “He has led our Fire Department with honor, integrity and a deep commitment to the safety of our residents. We wish him well as he journeys into retirement.”