Senior Deputy State Fire Marshal Tim McDowell has been selected as the Southern Region’s nominee for the 2024 Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year award by Deputy Chief John Nelson. McDowell will compete with five other regional nominees and the Bomb Squad representative for the James C. Robertson award at the Maryland State Firefighters Convention in Ocean City on June 16, 2025. His nomination highlights his exemplary fire and explosive investigations, professional achievements, and community service.
In 2024, McDowell led 14 fire and explosive investigations and assisted in 29 others. Five of his led cases were determined to be incendiary, resulting in three arrests, including two for first-degree arson. A high-profile case involved a suspect who broke into and set fire to a single-family home in Waldorf, causing extensive damage. McDowell also served as the lead investigator in the 2023 Line-of-Duty Death of Firefighter Trossbach in St. Mary’s County, coordinating with OSHA, NIOSH, the Naval District Washington Fire Department, and local agencies to produce a detailed incident report.
McDowell expanded his expertise in 2024 by becoming a certified bomb technician after completing a six-week course at the Hazardous Devices School in Huntsville, Alabama. He now serves on the Bomb Squad, responding to explosive incidents statewide and supporting large-scale security operations. Additionally, he was selected as a Task Force Officer with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in 2024, allowing him to operate under federal authority and access national resources for complex investigations.
“Tim is a consummate professional whose contributions reach far beyond his assigned duties,” said Deputy Chief John Nelson. “He exemplifies what a Deputy State Fire Marshal is —highly trained, deeply experienced, and completely dedicated to the safety of our communities.” McDowell’s commitment extends to community outreach, participating in events like Camp COPS, Touch-a-Truck, and No Hunger November food drives.
A lifelong learner, McDowell graduated Summa Cum Laude from Columbia Southern University with a Bachelor of Science in Fire Administration, specializing in Fire Investigation. His academic excellence enhances his investigative work, positioning him as a leader in the field. McDowell’s roles as an investigator, bomb technician, and federal task force officer demonstrate his versatility and dedication to public safety.
The James C. Robertson award honors a Deputy State Fire Marshal who exhibits outstanding service, leadership, and impact. McDowell’s nomination reflects his contributions to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, which oversees fire prevention, investigation, and explosive safety across Maryland. His 2024 achievements, including securing arrests in arson cases and leading high-profile investigations, make him a strong candidate for the award.
McDowell’s community involvement further underscores his qualifications. Events like Camp COPS engage youth with law enforcement, while Touch-a-Truck and food drives strengthen community ties. His ability to balance demanding investigative work with outreach and professional development aligns with the award’s criteria. As McDowell prepares for the convention, his record of service highlights his impact on Maryland’s safety and security.
