Michael Fillback Leaves Community Legacy Beyond Edwardsville Police Department

EDWARDSVILLE - Retired Edwardsville Police Chief Michael Fillback had an emotional send-off with the department on Friday, Oct. 2, 2026. Current and former Edwardsville Police Department employees, two former chiefs, city staff, elected officials, and fellow law enforcement professionals stopped by to wish him well in his retirement.

Previous Deputy Chief Michael Lybarger assumed the chief’s title following Fillback’s departure for retirement.

Some may not know this, but Fillback is an Alton native. He also served six years in the U.S. Marine Corps. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and graduated from Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff & Command.

In brief remarks on his retirement date, Fillback spoke about the department’s role in the community and his pride in serving it.

“I never envisioned being chief, but I always tried to do the best I could with it,” he said. “I know we’re in good hands, and these guys are going to carry on. I recommend just always look out for one another.”

Fillback’s time as chief included the coronavirus pandemic and a tornado that struck Edwardsville in December 2021, killing six people at an Amazon warehouse and battering other sections of the city. The tornado hit five months after he became chief. Fillback spent his entire law enforcement career with Edwardsville. He joined the department in August 1996 and was promoted to sergeant in 2002, lieutenant in 2013, and deputy chief in 2018. He was appointed chief in July 2021.

As chief, Fillback oversaw steady growth in the department that closely mirrored the city’s growth and development.

Fillback was a major contributor to community causes. He was always a strong advocate for Special Olympics Illinois and local athletes.

Fillback's legacy as chief, a police officer, and a community citizen of Edwardsville will not be forgotten.

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