DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — The city of Decatur has announced a new fire chief. The announcement comes one day after former Decatur Fire Chief Jeff Abbott hung up his helmet.
Neil Elder will be stepping into the role. Elder has been with DFD for 20 years, and previously served as deputy fire chief of operations.
“I am excited to promote Neil and am confident he will provide exceptional leadership as Fire Chief,” said Decatur City Manager Tim Gleason. “The Decatur Fire Department is one of the best in Illinois and I know that will continue under Chief Elder.”
Elder began his career at DFD in September 2004. He was promoted to Fire Lieutenant in 2010, to Fire Captain in 2018, then to Battalion Chief in 2020, before his most recent position as Deputy Fire Chief of Operations since September 2024. He officially starts as Fire Chief on March 16, 2025.
“I am truly honored and humbled to be selected as the Fire Chief for the City of Decatur,” said Elder. “This is a role I embrace with the utmost responsibility and commitment. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team of fire professionals to continue delivering the exceptional service that the citizens of Decatur deserve.”
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