Arrested: Upstate NY Man Put Firefighters at Risk During Vehicle Fire

It was another tough weekend for first responders across the Capital Region.

On Sunday, firefighters in Albany battled a large blaze on Lark Street, a scene that reminded me of the dangers, exhaustion, and selflessness that come with their jobs.

Wait, He Did What?

According to New York State Police, 28-year-old Jarid M. Swan of Granville was arrested after he allegedly ignored North Granville Fire Department firefighters' instructions, drove around fire trucks, and went straight through an active fire scene in the middle of the night.

Yes, you read that right.

While crews were putting out a vehicle fire back on October 19th on Beaver Pond Lane, Swan reportedly decided the rules didn’t apply to him, forcing multiple firefighters to stop what they were doing and move out of the way to avoid being hit.

Drove Over Several Fire Hoses

As if that weren’t bad enough, police say he drove right over several fire hoses, which were the very lines being used to fight the flames.

Read More: Popular Tavern in Schoharie County Serves Its Final Meal 

According to State Police, Swan was charged with Reckless Endangerment, Reckless Endangerment of Property, and Obstructing Firefighting Operations and was released with an appearance ticket.

Thank You to Our First Responders

I don’t know about you, but after watching what those Albany firefighters went through Sunday on Lark Street, hauling gear up ladders, facing thick smoke and falling debris, the last thing these heroes need is some fool making their job even harder.

So, for every firefighter, EMT, and first responder out there, on behalf of all of us here at GNA, we say thank you.
You run toward danger while the rest of us run away, and it’s a shame when someone’s total lack of respect puts your lives at even greater risk.