Old Orchard Beach is beginning the search for a new fire chief following the resignation of Ricky Plummer, who has been charged with arson in connection to a seven-alarm fire in April.
Plummer, 59, of Biddeford, was arrested on May 7. He is accused of starting a brush and woods fire on April 15 that spanned about 40 acres near Jones Creek. The fire took about 100 firefighters from several communities two hours to extinguish, and threatened nearby residential housing.
Plummer began as fire chief in September 2014, and had been put on administrative leave after his arrest. Town Councilor Kenneth Blow confirmed in an email this morning that Plummer has since resigned from the position.
Town Manager Larry Mead said at Tuesday night’s town council meeting that the town plans to begin advertising for a new fire chief this week.
The Town Council unanimously voted to appoint Old Orchard Beach resident William Farley as the interim fire chief.