4 First Responders Arrested Over Shocking Hazing of 19-Year-Old Firefighter

Four fire and rescue employees in Florida have been arrested following an alleged violent hazing incident at a local fire station, authorities confirmed Wednesday. The disturbing case involved a 19-year-old firefighter who was reportedly attacked while on a 24-hour shift at Fire Station 21 in Ocala on Nov. 16.

According to Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, the alleged hazing began with grease being smeared on the victim and escalated to physical assault, including being beaten with a belt, having his underwear pulled down, and being waterboarded.

Marion County Fire Chief James Banta described the incident as “the most egregious thing that I’ve seen reported in my 30 years as a firefighter,” adding that he was “in shock and disgusted.”

Three employees — Edward Kenny III, 22, Seth Day, 22, and Tate Trauthwein, 19 — face charges including kidnapping, robbery, and battery. A fourth, 25-year-old paramedic Kaylee Bradley, has been arrested on robbery and accessory charges. All four have been terminated from their positions.

The alleged victim told investigators that the abuse started after the suspects tried to get his cellphone password, reportedly because he had a viral TikTok video. When he refused, the hazing intensified, with his boots thrown into the woods, physical restraint, and multiple attacks while a towel was held over his face and water poured on it.

Despite the horrifying ordeal, the young firefighter did not give up his password and was only released when a service call came in. He remains on the job and has declined to take time off, saying, “He has a job to do,” according to Banta.

“This behavior is unacceptable, inexcusable, and fundamentally contrary to the core values of our fire department,” Banta said. “The individuals involved forfeited their right to wear the uniform the moment they endangered and betrayed a fellow firefighter.”

The fire department is now reviewing internal procedures, retraining leadership, and reaffirming that any form of hazing or abusive behavior will not be tolerated. Sheriff Woods also expressed personal disappointment, noting the emotional toll of the incident.