DERRY, NH — April 18th — A lifelong collaborator in local public safety, former Hampstead Fire Chief Walter "Chip" Hastings passed away, according to the Derry, New Hampshire Fire Department, located at 56 Rockingham Road. Hastings was a firefighter for 42 years, 30 of those years spent as fire chief. Hastings was renowned for his consistent handling of situations and his emphasis on coordinating mutual aid throughout his career.

Leaders in comparable positions frequently direct training initiatives, interagency activities, and community response preparation. His years of service demonstrated dedication to both his department and the larger fire service, according to officials. As departments throughout the region acknowledge his contributions, condolences were sent to his family.