TITUSVILLE, Fla. — Police Chief John Lau was fired after refusing alcohol testing following a crash about 11:15 p.m. near River Oaks Drive and Barna Avenue.
According to responding officers, a “partially consumed” bottle of vodka was found in Lau's city-owned SUV at the scene just outside Titusville's city limits.
Medics transported Lau to a nearby hospital with minor injuries, authorities said. While at the hospital, a commander requested alcohol testing; authorities said Lau refused, in violation of City of Titusville personnel policy.
After he was discharged the next day, Lau met with the City Manager, who terminated his employment, according to the city.
Since the crash occurred outside city jurisdiction, the Florida Highway Patrol led the investigation and determined no criminal charges would be filed, authorities said.
Interim Police Chief Tyler Wright said no other parties were involved and no serious injuries were reported.
Authorities said the crash involved a city-assigned SUV. The investigation remains closed with no further enforcement action reported.