Village of Sussex Firefighter is Accused of Driving Drunk during Memorial Day Parade

By: CBS58 Staff

Posted: Jun 1, 2016 2:16 PM CDT | Updated: Jun 1, 2016 2:18 PM CDT

A Village of Sussex firefighter is on leave after being accused of driving drunk during the village's Memorial Day Parade.

He was arrested after driving a fire truck into another car.

The crash involved a Village of Sussex Fire Department vehicle and another legally parked civilian vehicle.

According to Wisconsin State Patrol, Thomas Gerstner was arrested by the Wisconsin State Patrol Waukesha Post for operating a motor vehicle under the influence, 1st offense.

It was also determined that Gerstner was operating without a valid driver’s license due to its expiration in February.

CBS 58 also spoke today with fire chief corky Curtis about the incident.

He released a statement saying:

"When I was made aware of the situation, I confirmed with the Village Administrator that I Immediately placed the individual on leave. Tom Gerstner has been a dedicated 19 year member of the department. “He will remain on leave until the issue is resolved." The fire chief tells me this firefighter has no history of behavioral problems. He is due in court at the end of the month.