Findings of ‘No Confidence’ vote in Apopka fire chief expected today

APOPKA, Fla. – The Apopka City Council will hear the results of a “No Confidence” vote Wednesday concerning the Apopka fire chief in the wake of the death of a firefighter.

The Apopka firefighters union is expected to present the findings.

Ever since the death of 25-year-old Austin Duran, the union has expressed its issues with safety and training protocol. Chief Sean Wylam has been criticized for not doing enough to make improvements.

Duran died last year from injuries he suffered after a heavy trailer filled with sand fell on him while he was working. The trailer is used for hazards like liquid and gas spills.

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A report from the state fire marshal later cited a lack of training.

Austin Duran’s father — Michael Duran — has blamed a lack of training was a critical factor in his son’s death.

“If (Austin Duran) had training, absolutely, Austin would still be here today,” Michael Duran said. “There is absolutely zero question: he would be here.”

Last July, Wylam said he had been unaware of any issues in the department regarding safety and training and was blindsided by the criticism from the city council.

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