A City of Plant City Fire Rescue Driver/EMT was arrested on May 9 at approximately 6:19 a.m. near the corner of Big Bend Road and Lincoln Road in Riverview following a road rage incident.
According to Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Daniel Varela, 51, cut off the victim’s vehicle twice, prompting the victim to apply his brakes. Varela exited his vehicle at the stoplight, approached the victim’s car and punched him through the open driver’s door window. The victim attempted to protect himself by rolling up the window but Varela pulled on the glass, prompting the victim to exit his vehicle. At that moment, deputies witnessed Varela continue his assault on the victim.
Varela, who taken into custody and booked into Orient Road Jail, was charged with Burglary of Conveyance with Assault or Battery. Jail records show he was being held without bond Wednesday morning.
“The despicable conduct demonstrated by Varela is beyond unacceptable and will not be, under any circumstances, tolerated in our community,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “It is particularly egregious when a public servant, who is supposed to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens, engages in this behavior.”
Varela started his career with City of Plant City Fire Rescue on March 13, 2006 and has been employed by the department for 17 years.
“This is a very unfortunate situation,” said Fire Chief David Burnett. “Mr. Varela’s act of violence is not meeting our professional standards as a firefighter with our organization.”
City Manager Bill McDaniel said his actions are unacceptable within the ranks of team members. “I’ve taken steps to terminate his employment, it’s a violation of the standards of employees,” he said.