Machias, Maine fire chief arrested for OUI while responding to crash

– The Machias fire chief is on paid administrative leave after being arrested for operating under the influence while responding to an crash on Halloween.

Fire response and evacuations

According to the Washington County Sheriff's Office, Fire Chief Joseph Thompson responded to an accident on Dublin Street when other emergency responders suspected he had been drinking.

Because Thompson was a town employee, the Washington County Sheriff's Office was called in to assist.

Cause of fire under investigation

Also read: Maine mother charged in baby's overdose case pleads not guilty to new drug charges Thompson was arrested and charged with operating under the influence.

He has been placed on paid administrative leave as he awaits his court appearance.