Monday, February 14, 2011

** Florida EMT charged by police for false shooting report, suspended from job

** North Carolina police find body of missing paramedic;no obvious cause of death apparent

UNITED STATES NEWS

** As expected, a Pensacola, Florida EMT who shot himself and then lied to police about an unknown assailant, has been arrested and charged by police. The Pensacola News Journal (Thyrie Bland/February 11) said Escambia County medic Brandon Richie, 28, could face up to a year in jail if convicted on tags including the first-degree misdemeanor of making a false report. Currently out on $1,000 bond, Richie has also been put on leave from his EMS job, pending the outcome of an internal look-see. Along with concern over Richie’s false report, other issues center on carrying a firearm while on duty. There is no word on what Richie’s motive was for the shooting.

** North Carolina police found the body of missing Eastern Pines paramedic Clayton Womble, 28, Thursday. WNCT (February 11) said his remains were discovered in a remote region of Martin County in a sleeping bag located near his car. The Daily Reflector (Jennifer Swartz/February 11) said eight empty rubbing alcohol bottles and some coat hangers were found nearby. No obvious cause of death was apparent. Womble went missing January 20 after telling his wife he was going shopping at Wal-Mart. Police say foul play is not suspected. Autopsy results are pending.