The Detroit Fire Department (DFD) has announced the retirement of Captain Omar Davidson, a 31-year veteran of the department and a cornerstone of its Fire Investigation Division.
Captain Davidson, alongside his K9 partner Campbell, retired on the week of the 8 April 2026, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, dedication and service to the residents of Detroit.
Captain Davidson began his career as a trial firefighter in 1995, assigned to Ladder 23.
Early in his career, he tested into what was then known as the Arson Division- now the Fire Investigation Division- where he discovered his passion for investigative work.
After seven years in the division, he seized an opportunity that would shape the course of his career and the department’s capabilities: becoming a K9 handler.
Recognizing the value of accelerant detection in fire investigations, Davidson played a key role in advocating for the establishment of a fire K9 program within DFD.
He explained: “I had to convince the administration that a fire K9 program was needed.
“Once we got it off the ground, it didn’t take long for everyone to realize we had made the right decision. These dogs are incredible.
“When I’m working a deadly fire, I feel like I’m speaking for those who lost their lives.”
Davidson estimates he has worked more than 2,000 fire scenes with his K9 partners over the years.
His current partner, Campbell, described as strong and rambunctious, joined him in 2019.
The highly trained accelerant detection canines are provided through the ATF’s National Canine Division in Virginia, where handlers are carefully paired with dogs based on temperament and compatibility.
Throughout his career, Davidson has also served as a member of the ATF Task Force, assisting with major fire investigations across the State of Michigan.
He has also worked as a guest trainer at the ATF’s National Canine Division, preparing pups for a career in service.
Executive Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms reflected on both a personal and professional connection with Davidson that dates back decades.
Commissioner Simms shared: “I first met Omar in 1995 at a firehouse, and we later went through the police academy together in preparation for our work in the Arson Division.
“Back then, we were investigating 10 to 15 structure fires a day.
“Despite the hectic pace of our work, Omar always stood out because of his great temperament and incredible patience, which made him exceptional at this work.
“I want to personally thank him for his 32 years of dedicated service to this department and to the residents of Detroit.”
Chief of the Fire Investigation Division Dennis Richardson, who has worked alongside Davidson for two decades, emphasized the impact of his work.
Richardson explained: “The work Captain Davidson and his K9 partners have done has saved investigators an incredible amount of time and energy.
“These dogs are so highly trained they can pinpoint accelerants with remarkable accuracy. Omar will truly be missed.
“I can’t begin to put into words the full impact he’s had on this team and on this city.”
According to the DFD, as Captain Davidson and Campbell step away, the program remains in strong hands.
Lieutenant Alex Dunn and his K9 partner Cody have completed extensive training and are already carrying forward the mission.
Long before knowing Cody would end up working here in Detroit, Captain Davidson was part of the team who trained Cody down in Virginia, through his role as a guest trainer.
Like Davidson before him, Lt. Dunn now serves as a member of the ATF Task Force.
Lt. Dunn said of his new role: “I’ve learned a tremendous amount from Captain Davidson, especially in how he works alongside Campbell and approaches each investigation.
“Having the opportunity to train under someone of his caliber has been invaluable, and I’m looking forward to many great years ahead continuing this important work.”
Davidson spoke fondly of his time at the DFD: “I will dearly miss my colleagues and serving the citizens of Detroit.
“But I’m excited for what’s ahead. It’s been a great run.”
