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The public expects their first responders to show up for their shifts alert, sober, and ready to handle whatever faces them. After all, firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel often arrive for citizens’ worst imaginable days. However, Louisiana police officers arrested a firefighter with a DWI charge after he crashed his fire department-owned truck. Tragically, the firefighter was also a chief in his department, a leadership role and position of respect within the fire service.

Police in Keachi, Louisiana arrested firefighter and department chief Mark Magee with a DWI charge after he crashed into a hydrant

My fire department had strict rules regarding state-altering substances like alcohol and cannabis. Regarding alcohol, firefighters were not to consume alcohol within eight hours of showing up for their assigned shift. Of course, if a firefighter showed up with obvious signs of impairment, a chief or captain would likely dismiss them immediately. Incidentally, having an impaired first responder on the streets is a safety concern.

Understandably, then, the community of DeSoto Parish is likely horrified to hear that police arrested 39-year-old DeSoto Parish Fire District Chief Mark Magee for driving while intoxicated (DWI). According to the Louisiana State Police press release, officers arrested the firefighter and department leader after he crashed into a fire hydrant.

While this was Magee’s first offense, he was driving a department-issue 2022 Ford F-250 pickup truck. It’s unclear whether Magee was on duty when he crashed the fire department truck into the hydrant. However, state troopers assert that Magee was obviously impaired and collected a blood sample.

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is never ok. However, first responders must abstain from making such lapses in judgment for the sake of their communities. Frankly, my former department would test any first responder after any crash. First responders must remember that they set an example for the communities they serve.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).