Controversial Head of Lewes, DE, Fire Department Ousted by Members
There's a new leader at the helm of the embattled Lewes Fire Department.
After months of turmoil, voting members made a statement about how they felt about the former president's handling of an incident involving ex-chief Bill Buckaloo, who used a racial slur in public.
Gregory Bennett, who beat Wally Evans by a wide margin, takes over Jan. 1, CoastTV reported.
"Obviously, we had a rough year in 2025, and I just felt that maybe a new set of eyes looking at things may bring a different perspective to the department," Bennett said, adding that many weren't happy with the way things were going.
Just weeks after Buckaloo was suspended for two years for using the N-word, Evans reinstated him. That decision didn't sit well with many firefighters.
Bennett told a reporter: "I'm looking forward to a great year. I'm looking forward to working with the other board members and the department as a whole. I'm very grateful that the members saw fit to put their trust in me and lead this organization."
About the Author
Susan Nicol
News Editor
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.