Bob Costello

Chief Costello joined the city in 2004 and became Fire Chief in 2008. Throughout his career, he achieved recognition for various awards and innovative programs, including the implementation of the Community Paramedicine Program, in coordination with Banner Estrella Medical Center.

Other awards and achievements include:

Serving on the state’s Emergency Medical Services Council from 2001 – 2004, and from 2016 to his last appointment by Governor Ducey in 2020.

Healthcare Hero Award, Phoenix Business Journal, Aug. 2019

Exemplary Service to Humanity by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion, Feb. 2019

Dr. Paul Johnson Award presented by Abrazo West Campus in May 2016

Buckeye Heroism Award from the Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce in 2016

In addition, Chief Costello served as a member of the Patient Family Advisory Council at Banner Estrella Medical Center. He was instrumental in constructing multiple fire stations for the department to ensure the best service possible for residents.

In 2010, Chief Costello and his department took over operation and maintenance of the Louis B. Hazelton Memorial Cemetery. He is responsible for the success of the recent expansion of the cemetery, including the Adopt-A-Bench and Adopt-A-Tree programs, giving families different methods to honor and memorialize their loved ones.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Chief Costello was instrumental in providing updates to the city’s Executive Team and ensuring the city followed CDC guidelines as well as state and local ordinances and policies.

The hard work and outstanding efforts of Chief Costello will have positive impacts on Buckeye for years to come. Chief Costello leaves behind a wife and brother.

Our hearts are heavy as we process this sudden and unexpected loss. More details regarding arrangements will be released when they are finalized. The city requests you respect the privacy of his family, his department and the entire city until then.