Back to SearchOn behalf of Central York Fire Services, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the deeply saddening news of the passing of Central York Fire Services Fire Chief Ian Laing. Last night, Chief Laing passed peacefully in his sleep. 
Flags at all Central York Fire Services, Town of Newmarket and Town of Aurora buildings and facilities will be at half-mast until after the funeral which has not been announced at this time.
Fire Chief Ian Laing began his firefighting career at Mississauga Fire from 1975 to 2009 where he rose through the ranks from operations to Assistant Deputy Chief. Chief Laing joined CYFS in 2010 as the Fire Chief and was also the Community Emergency Management Coordinator from 2010-2016 for the Towns of Aurora and Newmarket. He was then appointed Regional Fire Coordinator in 2016.
Chief Laing’s fire services peers will remember him for his love of running rescues, being on the auto extrication team and participating in competitions. On his personal time, he enjoyed rides on his Harley motorcycle and going on road trips with his wife. Ian Laing truly loved the fire service.
Statement from Town of Newmarket Mayor John Taylor
“It is a sad day for Central York Fire Services, the firefighting community and the Towns of Newmarket and Aurora. The fire chief dedicated 48-years of his career to fire services, and 14 years as the Fire Chief for CYFS. Beyond CYFS, Chief was a leader in his field, providing mentorship, guidance, strength, and support to many across fire services as the Regional Fire Co-ordinator for York Region. Most importantly, he was a dear colleague and friend who will be greatly missed. Chief Laing was and will always be an integral part of Central York Fire Services.”
Statement from Town of Aurora Mayor, Tom Mrakas
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of Fire Chief Iain Laing's passing. Chief Laing served our community with dedication and courage, leaving an indelible mark on our Town. We are forever grateful for his leadership and commitment to public safety and keeping our community safe. Our thoughts are with Chief Laing's family during this difficult time.”
Among many of the Fire Chief’s accomplishments, his greatest source of pride was the construction and opening of CYFS Station 4-5 – the first jointly built fire station from Towns of Aurora and Newmarket, which opened in 2022. This state-of-the-art facility not only helped CYFS respond to emergencies faster but also provided enhanced training and opportunities for staff to strengthen their physical and mental health.
On behalf of Central York Fire Services, we would like to offer our sincere condolences and sympathies to Fire Chief Ian Laing’s, family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
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