Titusville Police Chief John Lau has been officially terminated from his position following a late-night vehicle collision. City Manager Tom Abbate announced the dismissal today, citing violations of City Personnel Policy connected to the crash.

To ensure continuity of leadership, Deputy Chief Tyler Wright has been appointed as Interim Chief of Police and will oversee all department operations moving forward.

The termination stems from a confirmed single-vehicle accident that occurred at approximately 11:15 p.m. last night off of Barna Avenue.

“This morning, Chief John Lau was terminated from employment with the City of Titusville following a preliminary administrative review of violations of City Personnel Policy,” City Manager Abbate stated in a press release. “The Florida Highway Patrol responded to an incident involving Chief Lau in Brevard County last night, where he was involved in a vehicle crash while operating a City vehicle.”

According to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), one individual was transported to a local hospital following the crash.

Quick Facts:

• Incident: Single-vehicle accident involving a City vehicle operated by John Lau.
• Time & Location: Approximately 11:15 p.m., off Barna Avenue in Titusville.
• Agencies Involved: FHP (leading the crash investigation), BCSO (transported one individual to the hospital).
• Leadership Status: John Lau terminated; Deputy Chief Tyler Wright appointed Interim Chief.

Following the City Manager’s announcement, Titusville Mayor Andrew Connors released an official statement addressing the termination, acknowledging Lau’s long history with the city while expressing support for the swift administrative action.

“This is an unfortunate situation for everyone involved, particularly for the dedicated men and women of the Titusville Police Department who serve our community with professionalism and integrity every day,” Mayor Connors stated.

The Mayor emphasized his respect for the process handled by the City Manager under the City Charter and noted Chief Lau’s decades of work in the area.

“Chief Lau has devoted more than 30 years of service to the citizens of Titusville and North Brevard. Regardless of today’s events, that commitment to public service and the countless calls answered, lives impacted, and sacrifices made over three decades should be recognized and appreciated. I thank Chief Lau for his many years of service to our community and wish him and his family the very best moving forward.”

Mayor Connors also reassured the community that public safety remains the city’s highest priority and expressed full confidence in Acting Chief Tyler Wright to provide steady leadership during the transition. The Mayor noted he would not comment further at this time due to ongoing reviews and personnel considerations.

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) continues to lead the active investigation into the crash itself.

Prior to the city’s press releases today, I sent an email to the Titusville Police Department and the Florida Highway Patrol requesting official statements regarding the accident. I am currently awaiting further response from FHP regarding the specifics of the crash investigation.

This is a developing story. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available from state authorities.