TITUSVILLE, Fla. (CNN Newsource/WESH/WKRC) – A Florida police chief was fired for refusing an alcohol test following an off-duty crash in a city-owned vehicle late Tuesday night.
The incident occurred around 11:15 p.m. near River Oaks Drive and Barna Avenue, just outside Titusville's city limits. Officers discovered a “partially consumed” bottle of vodka inside the vehicle driven by former Chief John Lau.
Emergency responders transported Lau to a nearby hospital for treatment of minor injuries. While there, a police commander requested that he submit to alcohol testing, which Lau refused, violating city personnel policy.
Authorities reported that responding officers detected the odor of alcohol on Lau and noted his bloodshot eyes. Interim Police Chief Tyler Wright commented on the situation, stating, “This is an extremely unfortunate and avoidable incident. Thankfully, no other innocent parties were involved, and no serious injuries were sustained.”
Following his discharge from the hospital the next day, Lau was terminated during a meeting with the city manager.
Since the crash occurred outside Titusville's jurisdiction, the Florida Highway Patrol has taken over the investigation. They have not yet provided details on their assessment, but no criminal charges have been filed against Lau. Lau served as police chief since 2013.