A Columbus Firefighter has resigned after making a controversial post on his Facebook page.
Veteran firefighter Brad Alexander has resigned, and two other firefighters and a police department officer face disciplinary action after “liking” Alexander’s post.
The original post has since been taken down but Alexander reportedly made statements regarding a call where a 2-year-old child was hit by a car. In the post, Alexander allegedly stated the child was unattended and questioned the location of the child’s mother.
The issue is also going before the mayor and city council tonight, but will likely be discussed in executive session, a common practice when personnel matters are brought before the council.
Alexander, a 12-year veteran with the department and former Rookie of the Year with the county, met with Mayor Robert Smith and council members Monday.
Alexander posted an apology on his Facebook page:
“Hello all, I made a very poor decision on making a comment here the other day. Please let me apologize for my disrespect and stupidity. To all my co-workers who this reflected on, I am deeply sorry. Also to all the citizens I swore to serve. Please allow me to earn your trust again.”
Numerous people responded to the comment showing their support for Alexander. One stated “If my family or friends had an accident, fire, or other emergency, you would be my first choice!”
Alexander reflected fondly on his time with the department and had a message for the citizens he swore to protect.
“Any citizens of the citizens of Columbus should never question the Fire Department’s ability, it’s the best in the state,” he said.
Sarah Fowler covered crime, education and community related events for The Dispatch.
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