Embattled Detroit Fire Commissioner Resigning

Dec. 3, 2013
Detroit Fire Commissioner Don Austin may leave as early as today.

Detroit's Fire Commissioner Don Austin may be hanging it up today.

City sources told WWJ reporters a Detroit television station that Austin may be leaving as early as today.

Born and raised in Motown, Austin took over in May 2011 after spending three decades in the Los Angeles Fire Department.  

Austin created controversy when he advised firefighters to "let it burn" when encountering a fire in an abandoned structure to avoid injury and conserve dwindling resources, according to WXYZ.

Also, a number of fire trucks are in disrepair, and stations have been closed under his watch. 

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!