FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CARBONDALE - City Manager Stan Reno appointed Jay Crippen as the City of Carbondale’s new Fire Chief, effective February 1, 2026. 

Chief Crippen brings more than 27 years of fire service experience to the position, including 24 years with the Carbondale Fire Department. A lifelong Carbondale resident, Crippen is a graduate of Southern Illinois University–Carbondale, where he earned a bachelor’s degree. 

Throughout his career with the Carbondale Fire Department, Crippen has served in numerous leadership and operational roles, including Firefighter, Shift Captain, Training Officer, Emergency Management Coordinator, Arson Investigator, and Assistant Fire Chief. His extensive experience and strong connection to the community position him to lead the Fire Department into the future. 

City Manager Stan Reno expressed confidence in the appointment, citing Crippen’s demonstrated leadership, institutional knowledge and long-standing commitment to public safety in Carbondale. 

The City of Carbondale congratulates Chief Crippen on his appointment and looks forward to his continued service and leadership.  

For more information and media requests contact Public Relations Officer, Eva Fisher, at 618-713-0711 or via email at efisher@carbondaleil.gov. 

“Carbondale prides itself on providing its visitors, students, businesses and residents with a unique mix of edge and ease. It’s a cultural town, yet free of pretense, embracing the great outdoors as readily as urban sophistication. Here, we are open to new ideas, experiences and cultures, so you are encouraged to both express yourself and be yourself, in all ways. That’s Carbondale…All Ways Open…for family, fun, business, new ideas and a bright tomorrow.”
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