Tim McDonald Nominated for Maryland Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year

Timothy “TJ” McDonald, a deputy assigned to the Lower Eastern Regional Office, has been named a regional nominee for the 2024 James C. Robertson Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year Award. His selection recognizes an exceptional year of service and will be honored alongside other top investigators at the Maryland State Firefighters Convention in Ocean City this June.

McDonald, who began his tenure with the Office of the State Fire Marshal in 2019, has developed a reputation for reliability and dedication. Working out of Salisbury, he has consistently taken on difficult assignments, frequently volunteering beyond his scheduled hours to assist with complex investigations and support colleagues in the field. His work ethic and commitment have earned the respect and endorsement of both supervisors and fellow deputies.

In the past year alone, McDonald completed over 100 hours of advanced training in various fire investigation disciplines, including hazardous materials, explosives awareness, and lithium-ion battery fires. He also obtained certification as a Certified Fire Investigator from the International Association of Arson Investigators, marking a significant professional milestone.

Operationally, McDonald conducted 59 fire safety inspections and led 21 fire investigations in 2024, resulting in 14 arson-related arrests. Among the most notable was his work in identifying and charging two individuals responsible for a series of Molotov cocktail attacks in Wicomico County. The arrests brought a sense of security back to the affected Salisbury community.

McDonald has stated his ambition to join the OSFM Bomb Squad and become a Bomb Technician, with long-term goals of serving as a Task Force Officer with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office press release

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