Eleazar Cuevas Promoted to Eagle Pass Assistant Fire Chief

By Jose G. Landa, Copyright Eagle Pass Business Journal Inc., 2026

The City of Eagle Pass announced the promotion of Eleazar Cuevas to assistant fire chief, recognizing his 24 years of service as the Fire Department moves forward under newly appointed Fire Chief Rodolfo Cardona.

Mayor Aaron Valdez congratulated Cuevas on behalf of the City Council and city administration, highlighting his experience and commitment to protecting residents.

Throughout his career, Cuevas has served as line lieutenant, captain and fire marshal, and has worked with the Emergency Operations Center. City officials said those responsibilities have provided valuable leadership experience and demonstrated his dedication to public safety.

“We wish him continued success as he takes on this new leadership role and continues serving our community,” Valdez said. “Congratulations, Assistant Fire Chief Eleazar Cuevas!”

Cuevas’ promotion follows Cardona’s appointment as fire chief after the retirement of longtime Chief Manuel “Sonny” Mello III. The City Council confirmed Cardona on October 6, following the city’s announcement of his selection the previous week.

Mello retired August 28 after 34 years of service to the City of Eagle Pass and its Fire Department.

Before becoming chief, Cardona served as assistant fire chief under Mello and held responsibilities involving fire prevention and emergency management.

The appointments place two experienced department members in its top leadership positions as the Eagle Pass Fire Department continues providing fire protection, emergency medical services and emergency response to the community.