Firefighter Eric Einagel returning to OFS after not-guilty decision

An Ottawa firefighter who lost his job after a physical scuffle with a non-binary colleague has been reinstated and will return to Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) next week, according to the city's fire chief and the professional association representing OFS members.

Eric Einagel was fired after the altercation with Ash Weaver in the kitchen of Station 47 in Barrhaven on Sept. 14, 2022. He was subsequently charged with assault causing bodily harm and assault by choking for his role in the incident.

On Sept. 25, 2024, Einagel was found not guilty. Capt. Greg Wright, who was also charged in relation to the incident but who did not lose his job, was also found not guilty.

• Former firefighter, captain not guilty for roles in dish dispute that got physical
• Firefighters ordered to end 'physical interactions' after alleged assault

In a statement following the decision, Einagel's lawyer said his client was "relieved to see justice finally done," but noted the allegations had cost him his job and threatened his reputation as an ally of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

"These false allegations destroyed a career he spent decades building and defamed his good character. Eric has always been a true ally and the particular nature of these false allegations deeply wounded him on a personal level as well," Dominic Lamb said.

Einagel starting Monday, association says

Einagel has been working as a first responder for a private company in Alberta since losing his job. After the verdict in his criminal trial, hundreds signed petitions to have him reinstated at OFS.

In an email to members on Friday, the Ottawa Professional Fire Fighters' Association (OPFFA) said Einagel is due to return to the OFS effective Monday.

"As a labour association, we are committed to ensuring every member receives fair treatment and due process. The OPFFA resolved a grievance involving Member Einagel prior to his May 2024 criminal trial. Following his exoneration, we are glad to see him reinstated to OFS."

Einagel will return to OFS in the same role, but will not return to Station 47, the OPFFA said.

The association specifically thanked Chief Paul Hutt "for his strong support for Member Einagel's return." 

'A difficult time' for OFS

In a separate statement on Friday afternoon, Hutt confirmed Einagel's reinstatement.

"Following a thorough review of the outcome of the criminal proceedings ... which found Mr. Eric Einagel not guilty of any criminal wrongdoing, the Ottawa Fire Service will be reinstating Mr. Einagel as a firefighter," Hutt said.

"The City of Ottawa recognizes that this has been a difficult time for the Ottawa Fire Service and the individuals involved. Our members are our top priority, and we remain committed to offering our full support to all our members during this transition."

In an email to CBC on Friday, Einagel's defence lawyer Dominic Lamb added: "Eric is relieved that this entire nightmare is finally fully behind him and looks forward to serving his community again with the Ottawa Fire Service."

CBC has requested a comment from OFS through the City of Ottawa.