Columbus, OH, Chief Facing Sanctions for Probe of Fatal Fire Rig Crash

Columbus Fire Chief Jeff Happ is facing disciplinary charges for his handling of a probe into a fire truck crash that left a civilian dead.

In July 2023, the engine, driven by Columbus Probationary Firefighter Tyler Conners, crossed from the right lane to take an emergency crossover. A pickup truck struck the rear of the rig that was partially in the travel lane.

Timothy Wiggins, 63, the truck driver, was pronounced dead at the scene, WBNS reported.

Conners pleaded no contest to vehicular homicide, and received a 90-day suspended sentence. 

Columbus paid Wiggins' estate $750,000 and his passenger, who also sued, received $191,000.

Following an investigation, the Columbus Division of Fire’s fleet accident review committee unanimously found no fault. They didn't suggest discipline or policy changes. Happ upheld the decision.

The fire chief's move didn't sit well with city officials, who spent $60,000 for an independent review of the crash and the committee's work.

Director of Public Safety Kate Pishotti wrote in a statement Monday: "An incident of this gravity and consequence must be handled with the utmost seriousness and accountability. The independent investigation found, due to multiple failures, that did not happen."

She added that disciplinary charges against Chief Happ will be filed on Tuesday. She said the charges could result in suspension, demotion or termination.