FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 28, 2025

Morgantown, Fire Marshal's Office Chosen for ATF Canine Training

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - The Morgantown Fire Marshal’s Office is honored to announce its selection to attend the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Accelerant Detection Canine (ADC) Course #155, beginning Sept. 29 in Front Royal, Virginia.

This nationally recognized program brings together top agencies from across the country for advanced training in the use of specially trained canines to detect fire accelerants.

As part of the program, the Morgantown Fire Marshal’s Office will receive an ATF-certified accelerant detection canine to serve the City of Morgantown. The highly trained dog will assist in fire investigations by detecting ignitable liquids, enhancing the department’s ability to determine the causes of suspicious fires.

“We are truly grateful for this opportunity to represent Morgantown and to enhance our fire investigation capabilities with an ATF-certified canine,” said Capt. Jason Quinn, fire marshal for the City of Morgantown. “This partnership with ATF will allow us to better protect our community and provide an invaluable resource to our region.”

Deputy Fire Marshal William Lyons has been named the department’s canine handler in preparation for the course.

“We are excited for Deputy Lyons to step into this role and carry forward our mission of excellence in fire prevention, education and investigation,” Quinn said.

The Fire Marshal’s Office also recognizes the strong support of Fire Chief Gary Freshour, city administration, and Robyn Hess, the city’s grant writer, whose efforts in securing resources made participation in this program possible.

“Throughout my career, I’ve written and secured a significant number of grants, but this one is special, and probably my favorite,” Hess said. “Our new accelerant canine will undoubtedly be one of the most valued and appreciated additions to our team, and I’m beyond thrilled to be part of this incredible resource for our community and others.”

The ATF Accelerant Detection Canine Program is considered one of the most advanced and effective training initiatives of its kind, preparing canine-handler teams to support local, state and federal investigations involving fire and arson.

"I'm extremely excited for our Fire Marshal’s Office and the City of Morgantown,” Chief Freshour said. “There hasn't been a dog associated with this department for nearly 100 years. Now, instead of serving as a mascot, our new accelerant detection canine will work side-by-side with Deputy Lyons to enhance our investigative capabilities, strengthen our community partnerships, and help us better serve the public. We have an excellent team of professionals who strive every day to deliver the highest quality of fire service possible, and this new addition moves our department into an elite group. This is an amazing achievement for us.”

Capt. Quinn shared that the Morgantown Fire Marshal’s Office looks forward to collaborating with other agencies during the course and bringing back enhanced expertise, and a certified accelerant detection dog, to serve the people of Morgantown.

Consideration of approval to accept the program application will take place at the regular City Council meeting on September 16, 2025. 

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