A Long Island fire chief was suspended after video surfaced of him using profanity toward a 10-year-old during an ambulance call, prompting disciplinary reviews and multiple investigations.
At a Glance
- Chief Peter Alt was recorded using profanity during an ambulance call involving a child
- The North Babylon Volunteer Fire Company immediately suspended Alt pending investigation
- Town and MTA officials condemned the behavior and removed Alt from related duties
- The family reports the child is experiencing emotional distress after the incident
- Officials are reviewing emergency responder protocols and training procedures
Recorded Incident Prompts Suspension
On August 4, 2025, North Babylon Volunteer Fire Company Chief Peter Alt was recorded shouting profanities at a 10-year-old girl while she was being placed into an ambulance on North Westchester Avenue in West Babylon. The family had called emergency services after the child became distressed over a personal matter. The video, which circulated widely on social media, captured Alt saying, “Shut the f–k up! It’s like this with you every f–king week!”
Watch now: Fire Chief Curses at 10-Year-Old in Viral Ambulance Video · YouTube
In response, the fire company placed Alt on immediate suspension. A public statement from the department described the behavior as inconsistent with its expectations and standards. Town of Babylon officials also issued a formal condemnation of the conduct, and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Alt’s civilian employer, placed him on leave from his position as a train conductor.
Family Seeks Emotional Support and Oversight
According to the child’s grandmother, previous emergency calls to the household were handled calmly by other personnel. The family stated the incident has caused emotional stress for the child, including increased anxiety and fear in emergency contexts. They are arranging counseling services and have called for transparency and follow-through from local authorities and departments involved.
Policy and Bystander Review Underway
The case has drawn attention to oversight and conduct standards among emergency personnel. Officials are examining whether other first responders present should have intervened. Training in “active bystandership”—the expectation that public safety professionals speak out or act when witnessing inappropriate conduct—is being reviewed. The fire company has committed to a full procedural evaluation, with potential updates to training and incident response protocols to prevent similar occurrences.