Nationwide — Peter Alt, a fire chief from Long Island, New York, has been suspended after viral footage showed him cursing at a crying 10-year-old African American girl strapped to a gurney during a call to her home. Authorities said an investigation is ongoing.
In the cellphone video, Alt is heard yelling, “Shut the f— up! I have to deal with you every f—ing week!” as first responders placed the child in an ambulance. The girl, sobbing, repeatedly said she didn’t want to go, to which Alt responded, “Shut your mouth!”
Officials identified him as North Babylon Volunteer Fire Company Chief Peter Alt. The department confirmed his suspension, calling the behavior “unacceptable” and saying it does not reflect the department’s values.
According to the New York Post, the girl’s grandmother said the incident started when the child’s phone was taken away, leading her mother to call 911 for help. She said police and first responders had been respectful in past visits but called Alt’s behavior “garbage” and urged that he be fired.
“She needed my help and needed my protection, but I wasn’t there,” the grandmother said. “When you call for help — the police, the fire department — they’re supposed to help you. Not treat you like garbage. And curse at a child at that.”
Neighbors said emergency crews had been to the home before but had never acted so aggressively. Several residents condemned Alt’s language, calling it unprofessional and unacceptable, especially toward a child.
The North Babylon Volunteer Fire Company is now reviewing its procedures, and the town of Babylon has launched its own investigation into the incident.