Nearly All Vedauwoo, WY, Firefighters Resign after Chiefs Suspended

    April 17, 2025
    The response area of Vedauwoo Volunteer Fire Department included residential properties as well as the Medicine Bow National Forest and highways.

    Nearly all firefighters with the Vedauwoo Voulunteer Fire Department have quit following the suspensions of their chief and assistant chief.

    In a statement posted to its Facebook page, officers wrote that Albany County Fire District has refused “to investigate serious discrimination and harassment concerns that were brought forward by our members, and not allowing our department to respond to any calls within our own response area and assisting mutual area partners."

     “As dedicated volunteers who have always prioritized the safety and well-being of our community. We believe transparency, accountability, and mutual respect are essential to our mission. Unfortunately, under the current circumstances, we no longer feel supported or able to serve effectively in our roles.”

    They thanked the public for its support over the years, saying it was an honor to serve the community.

    Also, the intro states: "This page is owned and operated by the Vedauwoo Fire Department Auxiliary."

    The response area served by the department includes I-80 and other highways as well the Medicine Bow National Forest and residental properities. 

    Albany County fire officials also addressed the issue: “Every resignation was voluntary by those members. The district did not terminate anybody. The board had concerns related to Vedauwoo VFD acting in a safe and prudent manner and their ability to provide an appropriate response. The Vedauwoo department was given very specific actions to take to regain partner and public trust and confidence. The response to those reasonable requests was a number of resignations.”

    Officers also wrote that Dave Bray, one of the few who did not walk out, was named interim chief, according to the district's statement.

    About the Author

    Susan Nicol | News Editor

    Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues. 

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