Chris Hughes Appointed Interim Daytona Fire Chief

The Daytona Beach Fire Department has its next leader: Chris Hughes is stepping in as interim fire chief following the retirement of Dru Driscoll earlier this month. Hughes has worked with the Daytona Beach Fire Department for 25 years. 17 of those have been spent in leadership positions. Most recently, Hughes was promoted to the position of deputy chief in February 2025. In his career with the DBFD, Hughes has earned a number of certifications. These include state certified paramedic, fire safety inspector, fire instructor and Fire Officer III. Hughes’ predecessor, Dru Driscoll, was appointed Daytona Beach Fire Chief in March 2014. Starting in February 2019 he also acted as Deputy City Manager. In June he announced he was stepping down after 27 years with the city amid intense scrutiny of his department’s finances. “I am deeply humbled and honored to have the opportunity to lead the dedicated men and women of the Daytona Beach Fire Department,” Hughes said. “I recognize the responsibility and trust placed in me, and I am committed to leading with accountability, integrity, and transparency. Together, we will continue to uphold the highest standards of service, and provide compassionate and professional emergency services that the citizens of Daytona Beach deserve.”