Rutherford County – The City of Murfreesboro announced that Deputy Fire Chief Jamie Bigelow will serve a two‑day unpaid suspension for violating department policy by responding to a fire call while under the influence of alcohol. The disciplinary action, which took effect on Oct. 22 and Oct. 23, was taken after city officials reviewed a report showing Bigelow had driven his personal vehicle to the scene after drinking.
Details of the incident
According to disciplinary records obtained by NewsChannel 5 reporter Aaron Cantrell, Bigelow admitted to poor judgment, offered an apology, and expressed remorse for his actions. The city’s fire chief, Mark McCluskey, said the incident raised concerns about firefighter safety, leadership accountability, and public trust.
The report clarifies that Bigelow did not assume command of firefighting operations at the scene. Instead, he was present to support the responding firefighters, but his presence while impaired was deemed a breach of policy that prohibits consuming alcohol within four hours of reporting for duty.
City response and policy
City officials emphasized that all public‑safety employees are held to high standards of conduct. “We expect our firefighters, police officers, and other first responders to act responsibly both on and off duty,” the city statement read. “When an employee fails to meet those standards, we act swiftly and fairly according to established policy.”
The suspension aligns with Murfreesboro’s existing policy that bars any employee from drinking alcohol within four hours before a shift. The city said the disciplinary measure was consistent with past actions taken in similar cases.
Context of recent first‑responder incidents
Bigelow’s case comes amid a series of recent incidents involving first‑responders in Middle Tennessee. About two weeks ago, three Nashville firefighters resigned after allegations of drinking on the job. More recently, a Metro Nashville police officer was decommissioned after arriving for duty showing signs of intoxication. In 2020, a firefighter was seen drinking during an online emergency‑medical‑technician class and later resigned.
City officials noted that these incidents underscore the importance of rigorous oversight and the need for continued training on department policies.
Looking ahead
Deputy Fire Chief Bigelow will return to duty after completing his suspension. The fire department plans to reinforce its alcohol‑related policies through additional training and reminders to all personnel. “Our priority remains the safety of our community and the integrity of our fire service,” Chief McCluskey said.
Residents with concerns or questions about the department’s policies are encouraged to contact the Murfreesboro Fire Department’s public‑affairs office.
Original reporting: NewsChannel 5 WTVF (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
