GATLINBURG, Tenn. — The City of Gatlinburg named its next fire chief as its current chief, Charlie Cole, is set to retire.

The city said David M. Gray will be the fire chief effective Jan. 3, 2026. Gray will start his employment with the city on Dec. 1 to allow for a transition period before assuming the role. Cole is set to retire Jan. 2, 2026, after 38 years of service.

Gray is currently the assistant fire chief and paramedic for the Knoxville Fire Department, where he oversees multiple fire stations and leads incident command operations for fire, rescue and EMS incidents. City leaders said Gray has experience managing emergency medical services, training programs, logistics and public safety initiatives.

“It is an honor to be selected as the next Fire Chief for the City of Gatlinburg

See Full Page