City of Winchester selects new fire & rescue chief

Published on March 18, 2025

WINCHESTER, Va. — The City of Winchester has selected Drew Savage as its new Fire and Rescue Chief. Savage brings a wealth of experience, with nearly two decades in fire and rescue, including extensive training, operations, and organizational leadership. His journey began as a firefighter-paramedic with Norfolk Fire-Rescue in 2005, and he currently serves as their Assistant Chief of Administrative Support Services.  

“After an exhaustive internal and external search, Drew really distinguished himself among the applicants,” said City Manager Dan Hoffman. “He brings decades of experience in public safety and has demonstrated success with Norfolk Fire-Rescue. We are delighted to have Drew join the team and look forward to him leading our Fire and Rescue Department.”  

Savage will replace outgoing Winchester Fire and Rescue Chief Jon Henschel, who will retire as Chief on April 1, 2025. Until Savage arrives to assume his duties in early May, the Department will be led by Acting Fire and Rescue Chief JD Orndorff.  

Savage is known for his problem-solving skills and collaborative approach to addressing administrative, operational, and cultural challenges within Norfolk Fire-Rescue. He led the department’s response to COVID-19, supported recruitment efforts, supervised training and professional development, and has extensive experience in budget oversight and operational supervision. Savage holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership/fire rescue executive leadership and is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer program.  

“I am honored to serve the City of Winchester as the next fire and rescue chief,” said Savage. “Thanks to outgoing Chief Henschel and his team, the Fire and Rescue Department appears well-positioned to meet the City's current needs and evolve with the demands and challenges of the modern fire service. I look forward to continuing this success and helping position Winchester Fire and Rescue as a model department within Virginia.” 

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