David W. Payton started his fire service career in 1979, with a background in mechanics. He was assigned the duties of Department Mechanic and later advanced to the rank of Fire Engineer/Officer-in-Charge/Paramedic. David was instrumental in the development and implementation of the North County Technical Rescue Team as well as the Lead Arson Investigator for the City of Atascadero, becoming the 2008 Investigator of the Year by the San Luis Obispo County Fire Chiefs Association and the San Luis Obispo County Fire Investigation Strike Team. David enjoyed spending time with his family, carpentry work, and camping.