Maryland has appointed its first Black state fire marshal in the 132-year history of the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

Caroll H. Spriggs II, 53, was appointed Wednesday (September 16) to a six-year term leading the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, according to DC News Now.

Spriggs will oversee the office, which investigates fires, arson, and explosives; enforces Maryland’s fire prevention code; and coordinates fire prevention efforts across the state, according to Maryland State Police.

The appointment marks a historic milestone for Spriggs, who brings decades of experience in fire and emergency services. He most recently served as a deputy fire chief with the Prince George’s County Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department. He previously served as a deputy fire chief for the City of Annapolis and as a task force officer with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, The Baltimore Sun reported.

Spriggs also spent 38 years with the Huntingtown Volunteer Fire Department and served on the National Bomb Squad Commanders Advisory Board, according to Maryland State Police.

“I would like to thank Colonel Jackson for this tremendous opportunity,” Spriggs said, according to Maryland State Police. “I look forward to working with all of the partners of the MDSP to continue making Maryland safe.”

Maryland State Police Superintendent Col. Michael A. Jackson said Spriggs’ background made him well suited to lead the office.

“With a career rooted in service and extensive experience in fire investigation and explosives, Spriggs brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office,” Jackson said, according to Maryland State Police.

Spriggs succeeds Chief Deputy Jason Mowbray, who had served as acting state fire marshal since December 2023, according to DC News Now.

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