Southfield’s deputy fire chief is now the city’s acting fire chief while a national search continues to head the department long-term.

Antonio Macias III was recently selected as acting fire chief as Fire Chief Johnny Menifee retired on March 6.

Prior to his tenure with the Southfield Fire Department, Macias had a 22-year career with the Pontiac Fire Department, serving in various capacities — including deputy fire chief and interim fire chief. He retired from there in 2012 when the department closed and services were taken over by the Waterford Regional Fire Department.

“Acting Fire Chief Macias has a strong desire to work with our management team to further the goals and objectives of our elected officials — namely to keep Southfield residents safe and secure,” City Administrator Fred Zorn stated in a news release. “Acting Fire Chief Macias will continue to do an excellent job in maintaining the Southfield standard of excellence in the delivery of fire services while a national search for a permanent qualified replacement continues.”

Macias attended the Macomb Fire Academy, is a licensed paramedic and holds degrees from Eastern Michigan University and Oakland Community College.

The Southfield Fire Department, with five fire stations and 107 staff members, is reportedly the busiest in Oakland County. In 2023, its busiest year on record, Southfield firefighters responded to 16,479 calls for service — or just over 45 calls per day —- officials said.