Leading firefighters from across the country have paid tribute to Wayne Brown, the West Midlands Fire Chief, who was found dead at his home amidst an investigation into allegations that he had falsified his CV, claiming to hold a master’s degree and having played for Charlton Athletic, to secure his £180,000-a-year position.

Wayne Brown had been appointed as the Chief of West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority just last year, impressing authorities with his supposed Master of Business Administration degree from London South Bank University. However, an investigation was initiated after the university stated it had no record of his degree. Following this revelation, Wayne Brown promptly removed references to the university from his LinkedIn profile.

Fire services from across the UK have come together to express their condolences, with forces in Gloucestershire, Durham and Darlington, Berkshire, Leicestershire, Greater Manchester, Tyne and Wear, Avon, Cleveland, London, Cumbria, and HM Chief Inspector of Fire & Rescue Services, Andy Cooke, offering their support.

Fellow emergency services in the West Midlands also mourned the loss of their colleague. West Midland Ambulance Service extended their condolences, describing Wayne Brown as well-regarded and expressing deep sympathy for his family and colleagues.

Police and Crime Commissioner Festus Akinbusoye expressed his devastation and offered his condolences, emphasizing his shock at the news. Meanwhile, Assistant Chief Fire Officer for Avon Fire, Richard Welch, described Wayne Brown as a professional officer and a good friend who leaves behind a great legacy.

The London Fire Brigade, where Wayne Brown served for over 20 years before joining West Midlands FRS, expressed their sorrow at his passing, remembering him as a valued and respected colleague.

Wayne Brown’s former colleagues at the London Fire Brigade and his current force, West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority, also paid tribute to him, highlighting his contributions and commitment to the firefighting sector.

Outside the fire service, social commentator and Windrush campaigner Patrick Vernon remembered Wayne Brown as an active member of Birmingham and Solihull’s Integrated Care System board and a passionate advocate for improving health and wellbeing in the West Midlands.

In a statement issued by West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority, Wayne Brown’s death was confirmed, with Chairman Greg Brackenridge expressing devastation and emphasizing that the death was not considered suspicious. The authority extended thoughts and love to Wayne Brown’s family, friends, and colleagues, urging respect for their privacy during this difficult time.

The statement was echoed by West Midlands Police, who confirmed that they attended Wayne Brown’s address, where his body was discovered. They reiterated that the death was not considered suspicious and that the man’s family was being supported by specialist officers.

The circumstances surrounding Wayne Brown’s death remain a matter of investigation, with authorities focusing on the allegations regarding his qualifications and claims of a professional football career. The outcome of these investigations will determine the appropriate course of action.

Wayne Brown’s passing is a somber moment for the firefighting community, highlighting the importance of honesty and transparency in professional qualifications and achievements.