Mayor Keller and Fire Chief Jaramillo Announce Newly Appointed Deputy Chiefs

ALBUQUERQUE – Mayor Tim Keller and Fire Chief Emily Jaramillo announced that two members of Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR) have been promoted to the rank of Deputy Chief, filling vacancies created by retirements. The deputy chiefs will support and optimize internal operations at the department and help ensure the continued delivery of high quality emergency services to the community.

“Deputy Chief Sotelo and Deputy Chief Marrufo bring the experience, innovation, dedication, and commitment to AFR’s staff required to serve the department and the community in the roles of Human Resources, Logistics, and Finance,” said Fire Chief Emily Jaramillo. “We are grateful to have them on our team as we continue to strive for excellence in our service to the people of Albuquerque.”

Deputy Chief Alejandro Marrufo

Deputy Chief Alejandro Marrufo was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He graduated from West Mesa High School and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Administration from Columbia Southern University. He has been with Albuquerque Fire Rescue since 2008 and was a member of the 76th cadet class. As the Captain overseeing the Emergency Dispatch Center for AFR, the division was named division of the year in 2020. Deputy Chief Marrufo was named IAFF Outstanding leader in 2021. His time as Captain of the Emergency Dispatch Center saw many improvements to dispatch procedures and operations at AFR. DC Marrufo will oversee Logistics, Fiscal Division, Fleet Division, and Capital Improvements. Under his oversight, AFR Logistics supports all of the operational and supply needs for over 30 facilities and over 200 vehicles and apparatus. Fleet Maintenance maintains and repairs all emergency apparatus for AFR. The Fiscal Division manages payroll, grants, procurement, contracts, budget, and many other finance related activities. The Capital Improvements Division maintains all of AFR’s facilities and construction projects. Alejandro and his wife enjoy camping, travelling, and spending time with family.

Deputy Chief Christopher Sotelo

Deputy Chief Christopher Sotelo grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico after moving from Northern California at a young age. After graduating from Manzano High School, he attended New Mexico Highlands University on a football scholarship. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. Upon graduation from college, he joined the United States Army where he eventually became a Signal Core Communications officer. After spending 16 months in Afghanistan supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, he continued his military service part time and took on a job at the Bernalillo County Juvenile Youth Services Center mentoring youth. During his 15-year AFR career, Deputy Chief Sotelo spent most of his time in Operations, with a 2-year assignment as an instructor at Albuquerque Fire Rescue’s Fire Academy. Deputy Chief Sotelo also served over four years on the IAFF Local 244 Executive Board. Deputy Chief Sotelo will oversee Human Resources, Safety Division, Public Affairs Office, and the Mental Health and Wellness Division. Deputy Chief Sotelo is a husband and the proud father of three children.