Soap Lake mayor confirms chief fired

SOAP LAKE - With the mayor out of town, Soap Lake city officials are remaining silent on the firing of former fire Chief Dan Shields.

Mayor Raymond Gravelle, who is in the Tri-Cities this week for a conference, has not returned any phone calls or emails since the decision was announced Tuesday.

The city issued the following statement Thursday on his behalf.

"City of Soap Lake Mayor Gravelle has confirmed that Dan Shields' contract position as fire chief with the city has been terminated effective July 25, 2013. The performance of Mr. Shields' official duties as fire chief ceased June 24, 2013, but per the contract, he will be paid through July 25, 2013."

City Attorney Katherine Kenison also confirmed Wednesday Shields was let go and the city is continuing to investigate, but she declined to comment on what the investigation is for or why Shields was let go.

Many of the fire department's volunteers reportedly quit after the chief was let go, claiming Gravelle accused Shields of stealing money from department fundraisers during the hydroplane and Jet Ski races.

Shields was also allegedly accused of stealing equipment from the department.

His wife, Laurel Shields, the former volunteer safety office with the department, said she was also asked to leave and some of Dan Shields' belongings have been seized for an investigation.

Police Chief Glenn Quantz also said he could not comment on the investigation, stating he could not confirm or deny a criminal investigation against Shields, adding that more information will become available at a later time.

The city is now reportedly left with three volunteer firefighters, led by interim Chief Debbie Bowen.