DeLand, FL - The DeLand Fire Department has been working hard this week, battling two fires while its leader is in intensive care at a local hospital.
City officials confirmed today (October 3rd) that Fire Chief Dan Hanes has been at Halifax Health Medical Center for ten days following a cardiac emergency.
"A firefighter has been by the Chief’s side at the hospital and we are providing support for the family," Graham added. "Division Chief Mike Vazquez is serving as Acting Fire Chief."
Graham also asked the community for "prayers and support" for Hanes, his family and the fire department staff.
No other information on Hanes' condition has been released, but the city did release the following statement on behalf of Hanes' sons, Danny and Andrew:
"We appreciate all the love & support that everyone has shown. We will continue to send updates as progress is shown. We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the DeLand Fire Department. The support is overwhelming and our family appreciates it more than words can express."
Hanes - who has over 35 years of firefighting experience in the state of Florida - joined the department in April, beating out 44 other candidates for the job.
He served 28 years with the Fort Lauderdale Fire-Rescue Department and also served as the Fire Chief for the cities of West Palm Beach and Fernandina Beach.
