Wilmington Fire Chief Michael Donohue has retired.
Donohue’s retirement is effective immediately, and it ends his 37-year career in the Wilmington Fire Department.
Donohue has been chief, the same position his father Jerome once held, since January 3, 2017.
"Michael Donohue has been a decorated member of our fire department for decades and I am grateful for his commitment to the goals of my Administration over the past four years, which include transforming the department, making it stronger, more efficient, and more diverse," said Wilmington mayor Mike Purzycki in a statement. "Chief Donohue was successful on all fronts and we wish him well in his retirement.
Since joining the fire department in 1983, Donohue received 11 unit awards, four individual valor awards, a public safety award, and the Medal of Honor.
Battalion Chief John Looney has been named acting Fire Chief by Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki.
Looney has been with the Wilmington Fire Department since August 1993 and served as Battalion Chief of Safety and Training since 2014. He’s also led the last four fire recruit academies.
"I am confident that Acting Chief Looney will continue to guide the department with a steady hand while building on the successes of his predecessor," said Purzycki in a statement. 'I am grateful that John has accepted this new challenge.”
