NC Department of Labor fines Pineville Fire Department

PINEVILLE, NC– It was here at the Edwin Watts Golf store where tragedy struck back in April. Twenty year old volunteer firefighter Richard Sheltra died from his injuries fighting the fire. The Department of Labor is now holding the Pineville Fire Department accountable for what it calls several serious violations in the incident.

The first citation is a fine of $2100 cited that “the employer did not establish and implement a written respiratory protection program”

The second citation carries a fine of $1,000 because “at least two employees did not enter the immediately dangerous to life and health atmosphere and remain in visual or voice contact.”

The third citation carries a fine of $2,800 citing that “at least two employees were not located outside to provide assistance or emergency rescue”

Pineville Fire Chief Michael Gerin said they are in constant contact with the Department of labor, and don’t want to comment on the specific violations during the ongoing investigation however he said they are committed to the safety of their firefighters as well as in constant contact with the Sheltra family and want to keep a positive memory of Richard Sheltra.

The Charlotte Firefighters Association has several members from the Pineville Fire Department.

A spokesperson says they stand behind the fire department.