The 2650 Foundation is inviting the community to participate in its third annual 15 Days of Hope campaign, honoring the life and legacy of fallen Apopka firefighter Austin Duran. The 15-day initiative includes tribute events, volunteer opportunities, fundraisers, and community gatherings that support first responders and firefighter training.

The father of fallen Apopka firefighter Austin Duran has formally endorsed mayoral candidate Nick Nesta, saying the commissioner stood with firefighters and families during a push for safety reforms. Michael Duran said those efforts led to additional staffing, new training and safety divisions, and what supporters call “Austin’s 18.”

In an emotional and pointed op/ed, Michael Duran calls on Apopka voters to examine their values and expectations for the city’s next mayor and council. Drawing on his son’s death and years of engagement with City Hall, Duran challenges residents to scrutinize claims of fiscal stewardship, transparency, and leadership.

After eight years of makeshift quarters—from hospital trailers to apartments—Apopka Fire Station 6 now opens its doors in a permanent, 8,065-square-foot facility next to AdventHealth Apopka, equipped to serve a surging population.

During the overnight hours of June 15th, Daniel Hodge sought shelter from a storm beneath a commercial vehicle. Approximately one hour later, the driver arrived, started the vehicle, and departed – unaware that Mr. Hodge was beneath the trailer. Mr. Hodge sustained fatal injuries as the vehicle exited the parking lot.

The 2650 Foundation is hosting its second annual Fifteen Days of Hope, a community initiative honoring the memory of Apopka Firefighter Austin Duran. From June 30 to July 15, residents can participate in supporting first responders and foster stronger community bonds.

Preliminary information suggests that the circumstances of Mr. Hodge’s death may be traffic-related. As a result, the Apopka Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Investigation Unit was called to the scene and is actively collecting evidence.

Devon Nicholas Bellar was a dedicated member of the Apopka Fire Explorers program, where he found his calling in fire service and community leadership. Although he never got the chance to fulfill his dream of becoming a firefighter, his legacy will now empower others to follow that same path. 

Students at the Public Safety Academy will learn all aspects of police and fire services. They will have hands on experience by participating in daily physical conditioning, scenarios, and field trips.

A tower truck isn't your average fire engine. It's a highly specialized vehicle equipped with an aerial platform and tools for high-angle rescues, ventilation, and major structure fires.

In a proclamation delivered at the April 16th City Council meeting, Mayor Bryan Nelson declared May 4th International Firefighters’ Day—a citywide tribute to the men and women who put their lives on the line daily and to those who never made it home.

A push-in ceremony is a time-honored tradition in fire departments that dates back to the days of horse-drawn fire apparatus in the 1800s.

The Apopka City Council, by a vote of 5-0, promoted Interim Fire Chief Wil Sanchez to the AFD's permanent leader at its December 18th meeting.

The Apopka City Council will vote on promoting Interim Fire Chief Wil Sanchez as the AFD's permanent leader at its December 18th meeting.

Vehicle and Machinery Rescue certification is an advanced rescue training program. This program equips firefighters with important skills to respond to complex and complicated vehicle and machinery rescue scenarios. 

The City of Apopka would like to wish you and your family a safe Halloween. We hope you will review and discuss these safety tips from the Apopka Fire and Apopka Police Department! 

The scholarships have been made possible through the continued efforts and support of the  2650 Foundation, an organization dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of fallen Apopka  Firefighter Austin Duran.

According to Interim Fire Chief Wil Sanchez, the AFD increased to 138 firefighters working three shifts, with 46 positions per shift.

The final step in the ratification process is the City Council's vote on September 18th to approve the contract.