Ohio fire chief faces disciplinary charges following fatal crash

An independent investigation in Columbus, Ohio into a tragic crash involving a firefighter from the Columbus Division of Fire has led to disciplinary charges being filed against the division's chief, Jeffrey Happ. The investigation revealed several violations within the department related to their handling of the crash and the lack of action taken against the involved firefighter, Tyler Conners. Conners was found to be responsible for the fatal 2023 crash that took the life of one individual and incurred substantial costs for the city. The incident occurred on Interstate 270, with Conners driving the fire engine in “non-emergency travel” mode and causing a three-vehicle collision while making a turn without using sirens or lights. Despite violating state traffic laws and department policy, Conners was not disciplined. The investigation also highlighted negligence in the department's response, including allegations that Chief Happ had already decided not to discipline Conners even before a review took place. Director of Safety Kate McSweeney-Pishotti announced that disciplinary charges will be brought against Happ, potentially resulting in his termination, demotion, or suspension. The report recommends various changes to the division's internal review and disciplinary procedures, such as additional training for investigators and new protocols for handling minor crashes involving fire vehicles. Conners later pleaded no contest to negligent vehicular homicide, receiving probation, community service, a fine, and a license suspension. The City of Columbus settled two civil lawsuits related to the crash and incurred costs to replace the damaged fire engine. You can access the full investigation findings and proposed policy changes in the documents provided below.