Three Nashville Firefighters Quit Over Bar Incident

Nashville Fire Department personnel are facing scrutiny after three members left their jobs following a reported visit to a bar while on the clock.

The incident occurred around midnight on Monday, November 30, at Dierks Bentley Whiskey Row on Broadway. Police reports identify the departing employees as Athams Davis, Griffin Hunter, and Daniel Wrenn. Officers found the three wearing department T-shirts and carrying bright yellow radios.

The bar manager contacted police after a bartender expressed concern that the group was consuming alcohol on duty. The bartender stated the firefighters ordered two vodka and Red Bull cocktails and one water shortly after midnight. Although the bartender said she did not personally see them drink the alcohol, she provided police with a receipt for the mixed drinks signed by one of the men.

When officers approached the group, all three men stated they were on duty. Each denied drinking inside the establishment. Police interviewed other bar staff who confirmed the orders. The area fire commander arrived at the scene and placed the three on administrative duty immediately.

The firefighters were placed on administrative leave and formally resigned on Wednesday. It is unclear if the internal investigation is continuing now that the employees have left. The department declined to release details or names, citing personnel privacy.

The incident follows a death in the department earlier this year. A firefighter was found unresponsive at his station with drug paraphernalia present. An autopsy determined the cause of death was cocaine toxicity.

Mayor Freddie O’Connell called for accountability after speaking with Fire Chief William Swann. O’Connell said the city is working to ensure Metro employees do not drink or use drugs on the job. He noted that the department has shown a zero-tolerance approach and is delivering internal accountability.

The mayor added that he is looking for assurance regarding retraining updates for all personnel. He is also working with IAFF Local 140 to hold the department accountable. The union said it has no comment at this time. The fire department stated it holds all personnel to high standards of professionalism and conduct.