NYC Firefighters Caught Recklessly Playing With a Firetruck on the Lower East Side

This week, a group of firefighters from Ladder Company 18 on the Lower East Side was caught engaging in risky behavior while off duty. Video footage shows two women, believed to be partygoers, riding inside the firetruck as it traveled through the neighborhood.

The women, laughing and waving, took selfies out of the truck’s window while the vehicle’s emergency lights were flashing. They appeared to be waving to passersby as if they were part of a parade. The incident was filmed as the firetruck was seen driving on Essex Street near East Houston Street, with the women inside cheerfully socializing.

According to the footage, the women requested the truck’s horn to be sounded, and the firefighters accepted. Two NYPD officers were also present at the scene, managing a moped involved in a separate accident. The video, posted early Friday, has sparked concern, with authorities eager to identify the firefighters and the women involved.

FDNY officials confirmed that the incident is under investigation. An FDNY spokesperson called the antics “stupid” and emphasized that once the emergency vehicle is in motion, it must prioritize safety. Allowing civilians on the rigs can delay response times and pose risks if an emergency call occurs unexpectedly. Additionally, standing inside the moving truck could have resulted in injuries if a collision had happened.

A high-ranking FDNY official stated that officers involved are likely to face disciplinary action. Firefighters who arrived at the station declined to comment on the matter. This reckless stunt has raised questions about safety protocols and discipline within the department.

Ladder Company 18 has a storied history, first formed in 1874, disbanded in 1882, and reestablished in 1887. The crew was among the first responders to the 9/11 attacks, and their original fire truck was recovered from Ground Zero and now resides in a museum in Ohio.