Akitaru Ōbi serves as the captain of Special Fire Force Company 8. A well-built man standing 189 cm tall and weighing 108 kg, he has short, somewhat unruly dark hair with shaven sides. Born on March 27, his blood type is B. Once a decorated firefighter with the Fire Defence Agency, Akitaru had two awards revoked for prioritizing civilian lives over orders. This experience drove him to establish Company 8, recruiting Takehisa Hinawa first after witnessing the Fire Force's point system for handling Infernals, which displayed little regard for grieving families. He firmly believes fire soldiers must always consider the feelings of those close to Spontaneous Human Combustion victims. Though lacking an Ignition Ability, Akitaru compensates with rigorous physical training, developing significant strength that allows him to carry 30 kg of equipment, rip train tracks from the ground, and bend steel. He employs weapons like the Core Annihilating Pile Bunker and a fire fighting ax to efficiently impale an Infernal's core. A capable strategist, he devises on-the-spot plans, using environmental objects for advantage or deploying fire extinguishing foam as a smokescreen. Benimaru Shinmon notes that Akitaru embodies hysterical strength, pushing beyond normal limits when endangered. Courageous and staunchly just, Akitaru does not tolerate evildoers. He views cleansing Infernals as necessary murder and insists on respecting the bereaved, becoming angry at those who disregard these sentiments, even subordinates. Despite a fear of death, he never hesitates in danger due to his responsibility to his team. His charisma inspires loyalty in Company 8, and even opponents acknowledge his moral character. He is often seen working out, doing pull-ups or lifting weights, even during meetings. His favorite food is ramen, and he dislikes protein. He enjoys rock music, favors dogs, and his preferred color is beige. He appreciates people with a high sense of justice, respects his parents and the fire defense chief, struggles with Princess Hibana, and is afraid of Lieutenant Hinawa. His hobbies include collecting records, playing basketball, and DIY home improvement, though he lacks skill in the latter. His daily routine involves bodybuilding, and his favorite school subjects were industrial arts and history, despite poor grades. After an event where Shinra Kusakabe reversed time, Akitaru now bears a mysterious creature stitched to his neck and wears a haori with the word "DEATH" on the back.