Grieving the loss of a fire chief

The community of Nichols Hills and its firefighters are mourning the loss of Fire Chief Keith Bryan, who died after a shooting at his home in Mustang Tuesday night.

Bryan, a former Mustang city councilman, worked for the city’s fire department for 31 years. He was taken to OU Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries Wednesday morning.

The city of Nichols Hills issued a statement expressing condolences to Keith Bryan’s family, saying it’s “a difficult time” for the city and its employees. Fire departments from around the metro offered assistance responding to calls today, but the city said its firefighters remain on duty.

Mustang Fire Chief Carl Hickman said he had known Bryan more than 15 years.

“We’re just in disbelief,” Hickman said. “A lot of the chiefs are pretty close. Keith was highly respected throughout the metro area, both professionally and personally.”

Mustang City Manager Mike Rutledge said he was good friends with Bryan during his time as Ward 5 councilman from 2004-09.

“He was a smart, strong, knowledgeable leader who was very personable,” Rutledge said. “He would help anyone with anything they needed.”

Friends and firefighters posted on social media sites Wednesday morning, offering thoughts and prayers to Bryan’s family. Here are a few of their posts:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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