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The incident occurred on Tuesday, Feb. 4, outside Engine/Rescue Company No. 3 on Rucereto Avenue, according to the police report obtained by Daily Voice.
Firefighter David Gluckman was turning left into the parking lot in his marked fire prevention vehicle when he suddenly stopped after noticing a pedestrian.
Gluckman later told officers he did not initially see anyone and insisted he did not make contact with the child. Surveillance footage reviewed by police confirmed that Gluckman stopped short and parked before entering the firehouse.
According to a letter of suspension issued by Dumont Fire Chief Nicholas Medina on Thursday, Feb. 13, the incident was not reported by Gluckman himself but instead by a witness. Officials say Gluckman continued responding to the fire alarm without checking on the child.
The girl told investigating officers she was walking home from school when she saw a white vehicle with no lights on approach her. She managed to stop in time but told police she was "very scared" and went straight home.
Detective Foglio confirmed with the victim and her mother that she was unharmed.
Chief Medina and the Dumont Fire Department’s Board of Fire Officers determined that Gluckman’s actions warranted disciplinary action for "conduct unbecoming of a Dumont Volunteer Firefighter."
His 30-day firematic suspension will be in effect from Feb. 4 through March 6, 2025, according to the department. He may return to active duty on March 7.
A Handle With Care notification was filed for the child, and body-worn camera footage was documented, authorities said.
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