APOPKA, Fla. — The City of Apopka will appoint a new fire chief to lead the department out of controversy.
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City leaders are expected to promote the Interim Fire Chief, Wilfredo Rivera-Sanchez.
Sean Wylam, the former Apopka Fire Chief, retired in July after battling city leaders in the aftermath of the death of firefighter Austin Duran.
Read: Apopka Fire Chief Sean Wylam announces ‘intent to retire’
Duran died in July 2022 after a trailer full of sand crushed him while he was on shift. He spent 15 days in the hospital fighting for his life before he succumbed to his injuries.
Duran’s death led to demands for change and calls for the chief’s resignation, but despite two votes of no confidence, the chief stayed in his position.
Read: Volunteers needed to register, honor veterans at Apopka cemetery
Rivera-Sanchez previously served as the department’s EMS division chief.
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