Pennsylvania State Police have filed criminal charges against a Hawley man and volunteer fire department deputy chief in connection with a December crash involving a fire tanker truck.
Deputy Chief Shane Michael Farrell, 30, of Hawley, is charged with multiple offenses including driving under the influence, reckless driving, reckless endangerment, careless driving, child restraint violations and related counts stemming from a single-vehicle crash on Dec. 20, 2025.
According to a public information release report, troopers were dispatched at approximately 2:20 p.m. to Owego Turnpike in Wayne County for a report of a crash involving a White Mills Fire Department tanker truck.
The report states that investigators were advised Farrell was operating the tanker when it crashed and that his 4-year-old daughter was also inside the vehicle. Rather than being transported by ambulance, both Farrell and the child were taken to Wayne Memorial Hospital by a family member.
While at the hospital, the investigating trooper interviewed Farrell, who, according to state police, admitted to consuming alcohol earlier in the day. The trooper also observed “a visible cut” on the child’s hand.
The report further notes that the child had been seated in the middle seat of the tanker without an approved booster seat, a violation of Pennsylvania child restraint laws. Medical records later obtained through a search warrant showed Farrell’s blood alcohol concentration measured 0.116 percent — above the legal limit.
In a statement posted Tuesday evening on Facebook, the White Mills Volunteer Fire Department addressed the charges and the broader community reaction.
“The White Mills Volunteer Fire Department is aware of, and deeply concerned by, the incident involving one of our volunteer members who responded to a call with a minor in a department vehicle and subsequently crashed the fire truck while under the influence of alcohol,” the statement said.
“Let us be absolutely clear: the White Mills Fire Department does not condone drinking and driving under any circumstances. We also strictly prohibit minors from riding in department vehicles or being present at emergency scenes. These actions are a serious violation of our policies, our training, and the trust placed in us by the community we serve. We understand the anger, disappointment, and concern this incident has caused within our community. We share those feelings. As a volunteer organization that has proudly served this great community since 1911, our mission has always been centered on safety, responsibility, and service. This incident does not reflect the values or standards of the White Mills Fire Department.”
According to the department, disciplinary action has already been taken against Farrell, and additional steps are underway.
“Disciplinary action has been taken against the member involved, and additional steps are actively being implemented to ensure that an incident like this can never happen again,” the statement said. “This includes reviewing and strengthening our policies, training, and oversight procedures. We know that trust must be earned, and we are committed to doing the work necessary to regain the confidence of our community. We appreciate the continued support of our residents and remain dedicated to serving with integrity, accountability, and respect.”
Image Credit: White Mills Fire Department