LEWES, Del. — Robert Stephens has been chosen as the new chief of the Lewes Fire Department after a recent leadership upheaval triggered by the departure of the previous chief.
Stephens brings 18 years of experience within the department, where he has held multiple key roles, including lieutenant, captain, training officer, assistant chief, and deputy chief. In addition to his duties in Lewes, he is a full-time firefighter with the Wilmington Fire Department, serving on Squad 4. This announcement follows the suspension and subsequent resignation of former Chief Bill Buckaloo, who stepped down after making an inappropriate public remark. A July 21 statement from the department confirmed that an official inquiry is underway, emphasizing that the comment does not align with the fire department’s core values. The department expressed confidence in Stephens’ leadership and welcomed him in his new capacity, stating that his appointment signifies the beginning of a renewed effort to strengthen community trust and maintain high professional standards.
photo: Lewes Fire Department Facebook page