DETROIT _ Firefighters involved in the photo taken outside a burning building will be disciplined for the "momentary lapse in judgment."
Detroit Fire Commissioner Eric Jones said in a news release sent out Friday the 18 firefighters involved in the photo taken outside the burning building Dec. 31 that "all involved will be held accountable" but because of the nature of the personnel incident, he cannot give specifics on the punishments.
Jones said the completed investigation showed the firefighters entered the structure to "initiate fire suppression operations" but because of the buildings structural integrity, they could not enter the building, according to the release.
The photo was suggested as a commemoration of the retirement of a fire battalion chief, Deputy Fire Commissioner Dave Fornell previously told The Detroit Free Press.
"Supervisors and above will receive a greater degree of disciplinary accountability," Jones said in the release. "I am satisfied that everyone involved has shown the appropriate level of regret for this inappropriate behavior."
The photo was originally posted on the "Detroit Fire Incidents Page" on Facebook with the caption "crews take a moment to get a selfie on New Years!" In the background is a house engulfed in flames. That post has since been taken down.
The photo generated more than 300 reactions and 50 comments on Facebook. Many comments wished the firefighters a Happy New Year, although some said the photo left a bad impression.
