HAGERSTOWN, MD – The City of Hagerstown has announced the hiring of Chief John DiBacco of the Norfolk (VA) Fire-Rescue Department as the next Fire Chief of the City of Hagerstown. Chief DiBacco will take over upon the retirement of Chief Steve Lohr on January 7, 2024.
Chief DiBacco has served with the City of Norfolk, VA since 1992. He has advanced through the ranks from Firefighter/Paramedic to Company Officer, Battalion Chief, and Assistant Fire Chief. He was named Fire Chief in March 2020.
Chief DiBacco is a graduate of the University of Richmond and Arizona State University. He has received several firefighter / paramedic of the year awards from local organizations, as well as being appointed by the Governor of Virginia to the E911 Service Board.
The City is also pleased to announce the promotion of Battalion Chief Adam Hopkins to the newly reinstated position of Deputy Fire Chief of the Hagerstown Fire Department. BC Hopkins will begin as DFC on December 18, 2023.
Deputy Fire Chief Hopkins has been with the City of Hagerstown Fire Department since 2004. He has worked with the Long Meadow Volunteer Fire Company, Washington County Emergency Services, and has been a field instructor for the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute.
DFC Hopkins is a graduate of the University of Maryland – University College and is currently enrolled in the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI). He has also received numerous awards and commendations from local organizations over his tenure with HFD.
City Administrator Scott Nicewarner is looking forward to the new management team starting work within the department. “With Chief DiBacco and Deputy Fire Chief Hopkins we have two exceptional fire professionals that bring a diversity of experience from their respective careers. This team will continue the work that previous Chiefs have done in progressing the operations and the success of the Hagerstown Fire Department.”
Retiring Chief Steve Lohr also expressed his positive outlook on this next phase of leadership within the Hagerstown Fire Department. “I am very proud to pass the fire chief’s duties and responsibilities to Chief John DiBacco. He will command a team of fire service professionals who will surely carry HFD’s success into the future. Our citizens are fortunate that John has agreed to serve this community after distinguishing himself in the tidewater region of Virginia for over 30 years.”
