TITUSVILLE, Fla. (Oct. X, 2023) – Titusville's police chief was fired following an off-duty crash involving a city-owned vehicle and a refusal to undergo an alcohol test.
The incident occurred around 11:15 p.m. near River Oaks Drive and Barna Avenue, just outside city limits. Officers discovered a “partially consumed” bottle of vodka in the vehicle, according to authorities.
After the crash, the now-former chief, John Lau, was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. While there, he refused to submit to alcohol testing, violating city personnel policy. After his release, Lau was terminated by the city manager.
Witness statements from responding officers noted the smell of alcohol in the vehicle and on Lau's breath, alongside observed bloodshot eyes. Interim Police Chief Tyler Wright stated that the incident “does not reflect the values of this department or the dedicated men and women who serve our city.”
The Florida Highway Patrol has taken over the investigation, as the crash occurred outside of Titusville's jurisdiction. They confirmed that no criminal charges would be filed against Lau but have not yet commented on the decision process.
Lau had been chief of police since 2013. There were no other injuries reported in the crash.