A firefighter/EMT with Horsham Fire Company No. 1 in Horsham, Pennsylvania, was terminated after a racial slur was transmitted over the Montgomery County emergency radio system while crews were responding to a fatal motor vehicle crash.

The incident occurred on June 2, 2026, at approximately 4:00 p.m. Horsham Fire Company No. 1 and mutual aid companies were dispatched to an emergency call on County Line Road in Horsham Township. During the response, a member of the company used what department officials described as “offensive and unacceptable language” that was broadcast over the countywide radio system. NBC10 Philadelphia

According to reports, the language included a racial slur that was captured on the radio transmission.

Chief Lee Greenberg said the firefighter was terminated immediately upon returning to the station. According to media reports, Chief Greenberg stated, “He was very remorseful, and he understood. We told him very simply it was not the standard that we set forth.”

Chief Greenberg also emphasized the department’s response to the incident, stating that the company maintains a zero-tolerance policy for such conduct. In a public statement, Horsham Fire Company No. 1 said:

“Horsham Fire Company No. 1 maintains a zero-tolerance policy for conduct that is inconsistent with our organizational values and professional standards.” The company further stated that all personnel had been reminded of their responsibility to conduct themselves professionally at all times, both on and off the radio.

Chief Greenberg told reporters that the firefighter had been a member of the organization for approximately one year and was “very upset” and “very apologetic” following the incident.

The department also issued a public apology, stating that the actions of one individual did not reflect the values or commitment of the department’s members. In addition, the company announced that sensitivity and workplace professionalism training would be provided to all employees.