Mayor John Whitmire showed support for the union after Houston Fire Department firefighters were injured while fleeing from an armed individual

Following an incident where two Houston Fire Department crew members were injured, questions arose not only about the event itself but also about who was absent from a subsequent news conference.

HFD Chief Samuel Peña expressed outrage over the incident, where officers reported that two firefighters were injured while escaping from a man experiencing a seizure who brandished a gun.

Peña’s frustrations were conveyed through social media, as he was not present at the news conference. Political science professor Mark Jones from Rice University suggested that Mayor John Whitmire’s choice to stand alongside Houston Firefighters Union President Marty Lancton at the news conference might indicate his alignment with the union over Chief Peña.

Responding to inquiries about Peña’s absence, Mayor Whitmire stated that he and Lancton had reached out to the affected firefighters and families. However, Peña claimed he was unaware of the conference’s scheduling.

The mayor’s spokesperson clarified that Whitmire’s attendance at the conference was upon the union’s invitation, without further elaboration on Peña’s future under the new administration.

Peña, addressing the injured firefighters’ status, emphasized their well-being and the need to hold those responsible for threats and violence against emergency personnel accountable. He commended Mayor Whitmire for his support and stressed the importance of safety.

Union President Marty Lancton expressed gratitude towards Mayor Whitmire for consistently advocating for Houston firefighters and paramedics.