COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- Gov. Nikki Haley has named a new state fire marshal to replace outgoing Adolf Zubia.

Haley announced Monday that Shane Ray will take over from Zubia on July 31. Ray has been superintendent of the South Carolina Fire Academy for the last seven months. He has 26 years of experience in fire and emergency services.

“We’re thrilled that Shane Ray has agreed to serve as Fire Marshal. His experience ensuring the safety of our community and meeting the needs of our fire service members make him a great fit," said Haley

Zubia told the staff of his resignation in a May 24 email. He cited family and other priorities for his decision to leave after 15 months on the job.

Ray previously was fire chief of the Pleasant View, Tenn., volunteer fire department. He was also mayor of the small town 30 miles northwest of Nashville.

"It is exciting to be a part of the work that is occurring within the South Carolina Division of Fire & Life Safety with our focus on serving the citizens, firefighters, and all community stakeholders," said Ray. "There is a great team of dedicated public servants in place and it's an honor to be selected to serve as State Fire Marshal."

The fire marshal is part of the state's Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.

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