Hawai’i County Fire Chief Kazuo Todd dies unexpectedly Sunday morning at age 45

Hawaiʻi County Fire Chief Kazuo Todd passed away Sunday morning from natural causes at the age of 45, the County of Hawaiʻi announced.

Mayor Kimo Alameda expressed deep sorrow over the death of Todd.

“Chief Todd was a respected leader, a devoted husband and father, and a tireless advocate for public safety,” Alameda said in a statement.

“His commitment to our island and the safety of its people leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to protect and serve us for years to come.”

Todd was appointed Fire Chief in April 2021, after serving the Hawaiʻi Fire Department for more than two decades. Throughout his career, he held a variety of leadership positions, including battalion chief for six years.

He also led efforts in fire prevention and auxiliary services.

His mother, Bobby Jean Leithead Todd, said on her Facebook page that Todd passed away unexpectedly Sunday.

“I don’t have enough words or space to adequately describe how wonderful he was,” Todd’s mother wrote.

“I always told him that he was the best gift God ever gave me. He made me a better person every day.”

Todd was a prominent figure in the state’s firefighting community, chairing the Hawaiʻi State Fire Council and being an active member of the Hawaiʻi Fire Chiefs Association and the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

“Chief Todd was a humble and dedicated public servant who spent his career selflessly serving the people of Hawai‘i County,” said the county’s interim police chief Reed Mahuna in a statement. “He was widely respected for his leadership and professionalism, and equally admired for the kind of person he was, an affable, approachable individual whose warmth and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on all who knew him.”

Mahuna added: “His loss is deeply felt across our first responder ʻohana, and his legacy of service and compassion will not be forgotten.”

Tributes also have come in from around the state.

Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green said: “Jaime and I send our heartfelt aloha to the Todd ʻohana. Chief Kazuo Todd was passionate about keeping people safe and his leadership was an example for those in the fire service in Hawaiʻi County and across the state. While we mourn his sudden loss, each of us can be proud of and grateful for the legacy of dedication and service he exemplified.”

Hawaiʻi State Fire Marshal Dori Booth said Todd’s “leadership, dedication and service profoundly strengthened the safety and resilience of our communities statewide in his role as Chair of the State Fire Council.

“The Office of the State Fire Marshal stands ready to provide any support needed and remains committed to walking alongside the Hawaiʻi County Fire Department with respect, compassion and solidarity in the days ahead.”

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated with additional tribute statements.