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Great Falls Today
By the People, for the People
Great Falls Fire Rescue Names Jeremy Virts as New Chief
Virts succeeds former chief Jeremy Jones, who took on a deputy city manager role in October.
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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The city of Great Falls, Montana has named Jeremy Virts as the new chief of the Great Falls Fire Rescue (GFFR) department, effective immediately. Virts succeeds former chief Jeremy Jones, who assumed the role of deputy city manager in October. Virts has been with GFFR since 2006, most recently serving as assistant chief of operations.
Why it matters
The appointment of a new fire chief is an important leadership transition for the GFFR department, which plays a critical role in public safety and emergency response for the Great Falls community. Virts' extensive experience within the department and broader emergency services background make him well-positioned to lead the department forward.
The details
Virts began his career with the Great Falls Police Department in 2000, reaching the rank of senior patrolman and serving as a medic with the High Risk Unit. He joined GFFR in 2006 and has most recently been serving as assistant chief of operations, as well as sharing interim chief duties with Fire Marshal Mike McIntosh since Jones' departure. During his time at GFFR, Virts has also served as a paramedic instructor, captain, acting battalion chief, and deputy chief of emergency medical services.
- Jeremy Virts was named the new Great Falls Fire Rescue chief, effective immediately on March 4, 2026.
- Former chief Jeremy Jones assumed the role of deputy city manager in October 2025.
The players
Jeremy Virts
The new chief of the Great Falls Fire Rescue department, who has been with the department since 2006 and previously served in various leadership roles including assistant chief of operations.
Jeremy Jones
The former Great Falls Fire Rescue chief who assumed the role of deputy city manager in October 2025.
Mike McIntosh
The Great Falls Fire Rescue fire marshal who shared interim chief duties with Jeremy Virts following the departure of former chief Jeremy Jones.
What they’re saying
“It is an honor and privilege to lead this department. My focus will be on working to ensure our members are prepared and supported to serve our community safely and effectively, while strengthening partnerships and staying engaged with the people we are here to protect.”
— Jeremy Virts, Great Falls Fire Rescue Chief (City of Great Falls)
What’s next
The city will continue to work with Chief Virts to ensure a smooth leadership transition and support his priorities for the Great Falls Fire Rescue department.
The takeaway
The appointment of Jeremy Virts as the new Great Falls Fire Rescue chief represents an experienced and capable leader taking the helm of a critical public safety organization serving the Great Falls community.
