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Nov. 16--HUMMELS WHARF -- A fight broke out between two Hummels Wharf firefighters just minutes after an emergency call at 11 p.m. Monday requested the company respond to an accident near 6551 Park Road.
The scuffle did not jeopardize a timely response by emergency officials to the accident -- a vehicle that slammed into a pole -- but it did stretch state police resources.
According to Cpl. Dominic Picerno, of state police at Selinsgrove, the first shift responded to the fire company fight, and the second, to the accident.
Shamokin Dam police were called to assist state troopers, who are the primary responders to vehicle accidents. According to Patrolman Timothy Bremigen, Shamokin Dam police were dispatched to the accident at 11:08 p.m., arrived at 11:13 p.m., and were on standby until state police arrived. They left the scene at 11:33 p.m.
Hummels Wharf Fire Department Deputy Chief John "Jack" Grove said the company's engine at 11 p.m. was at a medical call, and that dispatchers later canceled the need for fire apparatus at the accident scene.
However, the behavior by the firefighters is unacceptable and has been discussed, Grove said.
"We're going to handle things internally, and hopefully get things straightened out so it doesn't happen again," he said. "That's just not what we're about."
Grove said the two had been drinking before and after the regular monthly fire department meeting Monday night, and the fight was "a personal thing" involving the fire company.
"They had been at odds with one another for quite a few months," he said.
While details of punishment have not been formally discussed, Grove said, "Suspensions are in order. Something has to be done."
The firefighters both suffered minor injuries from the fight and were treated by an ambulance returning from the accident scene.
Charges will likely be filed for assault and harassment, Picerno said.
Snyder County 911 coordinator Chad Aucker said two different callers reported a fight in progress at the station around 11 p.m.
The accident involved driver Dennis Bingaman, 37, of Selinsgrove, who lost control of his vehicle when something reportedly ran out in front of it. The vehicle struck a pole. Bingaman suffered a minor injury, but refused medical treatment. He was wearing a seat belt.
The names of the firefighters were unavailable at deadline.
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