COLUMBUS, Ohio (WOWO) — Columbus Fire Chief Jeff Happ will resign on January 16 after being issued disciplinary charges in December related to a fatal 2023 crash. Happ has served the city for 30 years, rising through the ranks from ladder crew member to fire chief in February 2021. The charges st em from a July 23, 2023 crash on Interstate 270 near Hamilton Road, in which firefighter Tyler Conners caused a fatal collision while operating a fire engine in “non-emergency travel.” Conners failed to use lights or sirens during a turnaround maneuver, resulting in the death of 63-year-old Timothy Wiggins. Conners later pleaded no contest to negligent vehicular homicide in April 2024; his 90-day jail sentence was suspended according to WCMH. The independent Department of Public Safety investigation concluded that Chief Happ neglected his duty by not disciplining Conners, reasoning that the matter had already been resolved in court. Happ faces charges of neglect of duty and violating supervisor conduct standards. In a statement, Happ said, “After 30 years of service, I will retire effective close of business January 16th. It has been an honor to contribute to the city and its community. I intend to proceed with a constructive and positive transition, and I hope to leave behind a legacy of collaboration and dedication.” While the city searches for a permanent replacement, four assistant fire chiefs will rotate as interims on six-week shifts. The post Columbus Fire Chief Jeff Happ to Resign Amid Disciplinary Charges appeared first on WOWO News/Talk 92.3 FM and 1190 AM. ...read more read less