Editor’s note:
After the intial reporting, WSAV has updated their story to include the statement below from Chatham Emergency Services CEO Chuck Kearns:
“On October 12, 2025, we became aware of a concern with an on-duty employee. Our supervisor immediately responded. The employee refused the substance testing procedure as is required in accordance with CES’ drug free workplace and zero tolerance policy. Upon refusing testing, the employee was immediately suspended and terminated the next day.”
GARDEN CITY, Ga. — A Chatham Emergency Services EMT was arrested on Oct. 12 for allegedly driving under the influence while responding to a death scene, according to Georgia State Patrol records.
A Garden City firefighter alerted an officer after noticing the EMT smelled of alcohol, WSAV reported.
| MORE: First responders and alcohol – how much is too much?
Two Garden City officers began an investigation and also reported smelling alcohol on EMT Carson McCluskey. Another EMT told officers that such concerns “wouldn’t be the first time” someone had asked about it, according to the report.
An officer asked McCluskey to take a breath test to determine if he was safe to drive, which he refused, prompting a request for Georgia State Patrol assistance.
According to the report, McCluskey, another EMT and his supervisor all confirmed he had been driving the ambulance. A county spokesperson said McCluskey is employed by Chatham Emergency Services, a community-based nonprofit.
