Tawakoni South Fire Department is led by dedicated volunteer leaders who bring decades of
experience in public service, emergency response, and community protection. Their mission
is simple: serve the community, protect lives and property, and ensure every firefighter
goes home safely.
Through strong leadership, constant training, and a deep commitment to service, our chiefs
work to ensure the department remains prepared for the challenges of today and tomorrow.
Fire Chief
David M. Rutherford
Fire Chief David M. Rutherford has served the fire service since 2000, bringing more
than two decades of experience and leadership to Tawakoni South Fire Department. Over his
career he has risen through the ranks, serving as Lieutenant, officer roles, and
ultimately Fire Chief, helping guide the department's growth and development.
Chief Rutherford's journey into the fire service began early as a Junior Firefighter with
Ferris Fire Rescue, inspired by his father and a family tradition of emergency service.
His mother and father both served as EMTs, creating a strong foundation of service that
shaped his path.
Throughout his career, Chief Rutherford has responded to countless emergency incidents,
but one call that deeply impacted him was performing CPR on his own son, a moment that
reinforced the emotional and personal weight carried by those who serve in emergency
response.
Chief Rutherford describes his leadership style as fair and understanding, focused on
developing firefighters and ensuring a culture of teamwork and accountability.
Chief Priorities
Growing the department and expanding capabilities
Ensuring every firefighter returns home safely
Supporting training and professional development
Strengthening the department for long-term service to the community
He envisions a future where Tawakoni South Fire Department operates with 24/7 coverage
across two stations, providing faster response and greater protection for the community.
"Don't let anyone tell you that you can't."
Outside the fire service, he enjoys mechanic work, coaching baseball, and spending time
watching his children grow.
His guiding belief is simple:
"There's always a way."
Assistant Fire Chief
Kevin P. Madigan
Assistant Chief Kevin P. Madigan brings a lifetime of service, leadership, and training
experience to Tawakoni South Fire Department. With five years in the fire service and
three years with Tawakoni South, Chief Madigan plays a critical role in training, safety,
and operational readiness.
Before joining the fire service, Chief Madigan served in the United States Army, where he
developed the organizational discipline and leadership skills that continue to shape his
leadership approach today. During his time in the military he served as a Cook stationed
at Niagara Falls Air Force Base, responsible for food preparation and operational support.
Chief Madigan has served in several fire service roles including:
Firefighter
Lieutenant
Deputy Chief
Assistant Chief
He has also served with Quinlan Volunteer Fire Department (QVFD) and responded to many
major incidents throughout his career, including the North Shore Fire, which remains one
of the most memorable calls of his service.
Chief Madigan's motivation to serve comes from a deep desire to help people during their
most difficult moments.
He describes his leadership style as:
"Strict but fun - always teaching when the opportunity arises."
Top Priorities
Firefighter and public safety
Continuous training and education
Operational awareness and preparedness
Building a stronger, more capable department
Chief Madigan strongly believes that learning never stops.
"If you're not learning all the time, you will fall behind."
His long-term vision for the department is a highly trained, multi-station fire department
that continually improves to protect the people of the county.
Outside of the fire service, he enjoys camping and horseback riding, and he is proud to
have family members involved in emergency services including his son and grandson.
One lesson he lives by:
"Keep an eye on everything, because it's always changing."
Serving Our Community
Tawakoni South Fire Department is a 100% volunteer department, made up of dedicated
individuals who give their time and energy to protect their neighbors. Under the
leadership of Chief Rutherford and Assistant Chief Madigan, the department continues to
grow through training, improved equipment, and a strong commitment to service.
