A disturbing video has surfaced, featuring the fire chief of Long Island, Peter Alto, directing inappropriate remarks at a 10-year-old girl who was strapped to a stretcher during an emergency. He was recorded saying, “Close F-K Up,” which has led to significant backlash.
Alto has been relieved of his responsibilities while an investigation takes place. A viral TikTok video featuring his remarks, was shared on Monday, with a follow-up statement from a volunteer fire company released on Tuesday.
Warning: Strong language
In the video, the girl was in crisis, apparently suffering from a mental health emergency. Instead of receiving compassion, she faced condemnation from Alto. The source of the video expressed that the situation was even graver than what was shown, stating abuse continued beyond what was recorded. Children in distress need care, not harsh treatment—this incident is unacceptable and traumatic.
“The fire company is reviewing training policies to see if further education is needed in responding to emergency situations,” stated their official comment. They emphasized that such behavior is intolerable and should not happen.
As a veteran of 22 years in the North Babylon Volunteer Fire Company, Alto was one of the first responders to a call for help on a Monday night in West Babylon, initiated by the girl’s family. Witnesses reported verbal confrontations as they prepared to transport the child.
During the incident, when the girl pleaded, “I don’t want to go! I want to go home!” Alto reportedly responded harshly, telling her to “Shut up!” as the ambulance door closed.
The girl’s grandmother, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed her shock at how her granddaughter was treated. She noted that had she been present, she likely would have confronted Alto. “When you ask for help, you expect compassion, not abusive language directed at your child,” she stated.
After removing the girl’s phone, the family was prompted to call the police again as the child began to experience emotional distress. The grandmother recalled that, in past interactions with first responders, her granddaughter had always been treated with understanding.
Neighbor Mark Sims criticized Alto’s behavior, stating it was unprofessional to treat anyone that way, especially a child in a vulnerable state. He remarked that police had previously dealt with the girl multiple times without resorting to such language.
Officials from Babylon Town took a firm stance against Alto’s actions, condemning the use of “despicable” language by first responders and highlighting that it contradicts the values of dignity and respect expected by the community. They announced that a thorough investigation is currently being conducted and that measures will be implemented to prevent future occurrences.
The town’s response emphasized their commitment to holding those in emergency services accountable, especially regarding the treatment of children. Community members are calling for further investigation into the conduct of responders present during the incident.
Requests for comments from the North Babylon Volunteer Fire Company have been made.
