HARTSVILLE, SC (WMBF) – In Hartsville, news of the city firing its fire chief is leaving residents worried and looking for answers.

In a statement provided to WMBF News on Wednesday, the city confirmed that Fire Chief Jeff Burr, Deputy Chief Jason Bell and a third person “were released today due to policy violations.”

Hartsville resident Connor Johnson said the news surprised him and many others.

“For something like this to come out of nowhere, it really took everyone by surprise,” Johnson said.

A memo to city staff was also sent Wednesday from Hartsville City Manager Daniel Moore stating the following:

“At the City of Hartsville, we are responsible for all money spent as stewards of taxpayer dollars. We take the roles and responsibilities assigned to us extremely seriously. Please review the attached documents to re-familiarize yourself with our purchasing policy, secondary employment policy and social media policies. The City will not tolerate any deviation from these rules. »

The city has not issued any further statements since, leaving residents wondering if their fire department will be able to provide the same service and safety in the future.

Another resident, Connie Ogburn, said community members feel like they’re being left in the dark.

“People may feel like something is being hidden,” Ogburn said.

WMBF News reporter Logan Schiciano tried several times Thursday to get answers to questions from city residents, but no city official would provide more details.

City officials said Hartsville Police Chief Byron Snellgrove will oversee operations of the Hartsville Police Department and Hartsville Fire Department during the transition period.

The city said it is “confident in Chief Snellgrove’s ability to ensure the continued safety and well-being of Hartsville residents as we navigate this transition period.”

Residents, meanwhile, think it might be too much for one person to handle.

“I know the police department is very busy here, so I don’t know if they’re going to be able to handle everything that’s going on in the community and the fire department as well,” Johnson said.

While the shakeup has caused some residents to doubt the department’s effectiveness in the future, others have faith in the people still within the department.

“If you ask anyone here, the call times for fires all around Hartsville and Darlington are astronomically low,” Jesse Fink said. “The people who volunteer and are on staff are excellent at what they do. »

Some residents voiced their concerns on social media, launching a campaign Change.org petition to reinstate the three firefighters. At the time of this publication, the petition had 174 signatures.

Stay with WMBF News for updates.

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