ESFD Investigating Staff Member After Remark Made Toward Protesters in Pleasant Valley

Excelsior Springs, Mo. – The Excelsior Springs Fire Department (ESFD) has opened an investigation after one of its staff members allegedly used an ambulance’s public address system to make a disparaging remark toward protesters during a rally in Pleasant Valley on Tuesday, August 26.

According to a statement from the department, the incident occurred as an ambulance crew was returning from a hospital transport. A staff member reportedly used the vehicle’s PA system to direct “an inappropriate and offensive remark” toward demonstrators gathered on a pedestrian overpass above Interstate 35.

“We are deeply saddened by and sincerely apologize for this individual’s actions. This conduct not only violates department policy but also fails to reflect our core values and our unwavering commitment to provide unbiased service to every person in need,” the department said. “Unfortunately, the actions of one individual can cast a shadow on the hard-earned reputation of our department and the dedication of the many members who consistently go above and beyond in service to our community.”

The department stated that a full investigation is underway and is working with Local 42 representatives as the matter is addressed.

Rally Details

The demonstration was organized by Clay-Platte Indivisible, a grassroots activist group. Protesters lined the pedestrian bridge with large banners and handmade signs carrying messages such as “Wake Up! Resist!”, “Democracy, No Dictator,” and “Rise Up. Resist.”

Several demonstrators also dressed in red robes and white bonnets, mimicking the “Handmaids” from Margaret Atwood’s novel The Handmaid’s Tale and its television adaptation. The imagery has become a symbol of resistance against what protesters view as authoritarianism and threats to democratic rights.

The group’s organizers confirmed that a remark was broadcast from the ambulance’s PA system as it passed beneath the overpass.

“The ‘inappropriate and offensive remark’ to which the press release refers, was, to the best of my recollection, ‘get rid of the immigrants,’” Organizers told the Excelsior Citizen. “Until yesterday’s rally, I had not heard disparaging remarks coming from the public address system of a city government vehicle.”

They said a complaint was filed with ESFD following the rally. She added that while protesters often experience heckling from individuals in passing cars, hearing such a remark from a government vehicle was unexpected.

“Every one of us has used bad judgment in our actions at one time or another. I don’t have any animus for the individual who made the remark yesterday. I only hope the ESFD bringing attention to the incident is a step toward a return to civility in our communities.”

The Investigation Continues

ESFD has not released the identity of the staff member involved, citing department policy and the ongoing investigation. Officials said the results of the review will determine any next steps.

The department reiterated its commitment to accountability and professionalism, noting that while the actions of one individual were regrettable, they do not reflect the values of the entire agency.