NYC Firefighters Under Investigation for Reckless Street Ride

Firefighters from Ladder Company 18 on the Lower East Side are currently being scrutinized after a video surfaced showing them giving two women a ride in their fire truck while the vehicle was in motion. The incident occurred late Thursday night, with the women seen laughing, waving, and taking selfies out of the truck’s window as it drove through the neighborhood.

The footage depicts the women, one brunette and one blonde, seemingly enjoying themselves, with one wearing a firefighter’s helmet. The video was recorded moments after the firefighters were seen socializing at a nearby bar, raising concerns about their conduct during working hours. The cameraman also noted that the firefighters sounded the fire engine’s horn at the women’s request.

Authorities are working to identify the involved firefighters and the female passengers, whose behavior appeared playful, almost like a parade. The incident, which involved an emergency vehicle with active lights, is under investigation by FDNY officials, who emphasize that moving fire trucks should not be used for recreational or non-emergency purposes due to safety concerns and potential response delays.

Experts note that if an emergency call had come in while the fire truck was in use for such leisure activities, critical response time could have been compromised, and the women inside could have been at risk of injury in case of a collision. A senior FDNY official stated that any officer involved would likely face disciplinary action.

Firefighters arrived at Ladder Company 18’s station refused to comment on the incident. The department stresses that, while the rigs are occasionally used for educational outreach, they are strictly for emergency responses, and misusing them can lead to serious consequences.

The ladder truck involved has a historic significance, having responded to the 9/11 attacks and later being displayed at a military museum after being retired from active duty.

This reckless stunt highlights ongoing concerns about firefighter professionalism and safety protocols during non-emergency activities.