Fitchburg fire chief on paid leave pending external investigation, mayor says

Local News

Fitchburg Fire Chief Dante Suarez has been on paid leave since last month. The city declined to discuss details.

March 23, 2026 | 7:20 PM

Less than a minute to read

The Fitchburg fire chief has been placed on leave pending the results of an external investigation, the mayor confirmed in a statement.

Chief Dante Suarez is currently on leave, a spokesperson for Fitchburg Mayor Sam Squailia said. Assistant Chief Patrick Haverty has been appointed to the role of acting chief of the department, the mayor said.

Suarez’s paid leave began Feb. 26, the Worcester Telegram & Gazette reported Monday.

Suarez served as provisional chief beginning in 2021 under former Fitchburg Mayor Stephen DiNatale before his promotion to chief in 2023, according to city social media posts.

The city declined to discuss any further details, citing personnel matters.

Molly Farrar is a general assignment reporter for Boston.com, focusing on education, politics, crime, and more.

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