Columbus, IN.

Deputy Chief Mike Kutsko recognizes CFD Lieutenant Andrew Jordan, Firefighter Paramedic Jordan Hite and Firefighter Paul Chapple at the July 21, 2026 Board of Public Works and Safety meeting.

Three City of Columbus Firefighters were formally recognized by the department at the Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Board of Public Works and Safety Meeting held at Columbus City Hall. The veteran firefighters received a commendation for exceptional medical care provided during a June 15, 2026, emergency medical response involving a critically injured woman.

Columbus Fire Department Deputy Chief of Administration, Deputy Chief Mike Kutsko, presented the Exceptional Medical Care commendation to Lieutenant Andrew Jordan, Firefighter Paramedic Jordan Hite and Firefighter Paul Chapple for exemplary actions during the incident. Deputy Chief Kutsko recounted the incident prior to recognizing each of the responders.

On June 15, 2026, at approximately 12:49 PM, Columbus Fire Department Engine Company No. 6 responded to a local manufacturing facility for a report of an unconscious person who had sustained severe burns injuries. The firefighters arrived on the scene within five minutes of being dispatched and upon arrival, provided a rapid medical assessment. The firefighters quickly identified the presence of second- and third-degree burns and began to initiate advanced medical care measures including burn care and pain management. Recognizing the severity injury, the crew then coordinated with an air medical transport service to ensure transfer and treatment at a Level 1 trauma and burn center for definitive care.

Columbus Fire Chief, Chief Andy Lay, remarked that the swift response and high-quality care provided by the firefighters exemplifies the professionalism and dedication demonstrated daily by the Columbus Fire Department members.

“Their dedication, clinical excellence, teamwork and commitment to public service reflects the highest standards of fire and emergency medical profession and brings great credit to themselves and their department,” said Chief Lay.

The commendation will be placed in each member’s personnel file.