New Haven Fire Chief Retires After 40-Year Career

John Alston steps down after leading the department since 2016.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 3:07pm

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After over four decades as a firefighter and serving as the New Haven Fire Department's chief since 2016, John Alston celebrated his last day on the job on Friday. Alston gave a brief farewell speech to firefighters at the station before departing in one of the department's special vehicles.

Why it matters

Alston's retirement marks the end of an era for the New Haven Fire Department, as he has been a fixture in the city's public safety leadership for the past decade. His departure will usher in a new era of leadership and potential changes for the department.

The details

During his final day, Alston addressed some of the firefighters at the station, delivering a farewell speech before leaving in one of the department's special vehicles. Alston has served as the New Haven Fire Chief since 2016 and has been a firefighter for over 40 years.

  • Alston celebrated his last day as New Haven Fire Chief on Friday, January 30, 2026.
  • Alston has served as the New Haven Fire Chief since 2016.

The players

John Alston

The retiring fire chief of the New Haven Fire Department, who has served in that role since 2016 and has been a firefighter for over 40 years.

New Haven Fire Department

The fire department in New Haven, Connecticut, which Alston has led as chief since 2016.

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What’s next

The New Haven Fire Department will now begin the process of selecting a new fire chief to replace the retiring Alston.

The takeaway

Alston's retirement after over four decades of service marks the end of an era for the New Haven Fire Department, which will now transition to new leadership and potentially see changes under the next fire chief.