DETROIT (WWJ) - An EMS paramedic with the Detroit Fire Department is on leave without pay after allegedly hitting three cars while driving an ambulance and failing an alcohol test after, officials said.
The paramedic, who has been with the department for six years, was driving an ambulance at Carpenter and Klinger Streets in Hamtramck at approximately 1:10 a.m. on Dec. 1. He side swiped three parked vehicles, authorities said.
The ambulance remained on the scene to wait for police.
The paramedic was taken to a clinic to be tested, per DFD protocols. It was found that he was under the influence of alcohol. He was put on unpaid leave pending review, officials said.
"We have a zero-tolerance policy for the use of alcohol while on duty and will take the appropriate action," Commissioner Chuck Simms said. "We have an outstanding team of EMTs and paramedics at DFD and it's unfortunate that this incident detracts from the lifesaving work they do every day. We have programs and supportive services in place for our employees who may be struggling with issues such as alcohol dependency and we will redouble our efforts to make sure any employee who may need them is aware of how to access them."
DFD said there was a “Priority 2” patient in the back of the ambulance at the time. The patient was not injured.