Marion County officials are speaking out after the arrest of four Fire Rescue employees in connection with what investigators have described as a violent hazing incident inside a fire station. The arrests, which followed a weeks-long investigation by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, have sent shockwaves through the community and prompted leaders to promise sweeping reforms within the department.
According to detectives, the incident occurred on November 16 at Fire Station 21 in Ocala, where a 19-year-old firefighter was allegedly targeted by colleagues during what began as a prank. Investigators say the group smeared grease and pizza on the young firefighter before demanding access to a TikTok video stored on his phone. When he refused, the situation escalated dramatically. The victim was reportedly chased, restrained, and subjected to what officials described as waterboarding, a tactic more often associated with torture than workplace hazing. The seriousness of the allegations quickly transformed the case from an internal disciplinary matter into a criminal investigation.
The employees arrested were identified as Edward Kenny III, 22; Seth Day, 22; Tate Trauthwein, 19; and Kaylee Bradley, 25. Kenny, Day, and Trauthwein face charges of kidnapping, robbery, and battery, while Bradley is charged with robbery and accessory to robbery. All four were immediately terminated from their positions with Marion County Fire Rescue following their arrests. Sheriff’s officials emphasized that the charges reflect the gravity of the incident and that the case will be pursued aggressively in court.
County leaders expressed outrage at the revelations. Commissioner Carl Zalak condemned the behavior, saying that a small group of employees had treated the firehouse “like a frat house” and that such conduct was “disgraceful, disrespectful, and will simply not be tolerated.” Fire Rescue leadership echoed those sentiments, pledging to review internal culture and implement stronger safeguards to ensure accountability across all stations. Officials stressed that the actions of the four individuals do not represent the values of the department, which has long been associated with service and sacrifice in the community.
The victim, whose name has not been released, is receiving support as the investigation continues. Prosecutors are reviewing the case and may consider additional charges as more evidence is gathered. Meanwhile, Marion County Fire Rescue has announced plans to introduce mandatory training and oversight reforms aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. Leaders have promised zero tolerance for hazing, bullying, or abuse of any kind, and said that any employee found engaging in such behavior will face immediate dismissal.
The arrests have shaken public trust in the department, but officials insist that transparency and accountability will guide the response. A press conference held earlier this week underscored the county’s commitment to restoring confidence in Fire Rescue and ensuring that the department remains