The fire chief in the Town of Wallkill has been relieved of his duties for allegedly making racist remarks on Facebook.

Outraged viewers shared screengrabs of the comments with News 12 where Washington Heights Fire Department Chief Chuck Healy allegedly refers to protesters as "pavement apes."

When reached for comment, Chief Healy responded by saying on the Washington Heights Fire Department Facebook page that the "media is the problem."

However, the following statement was posted on the Facebook page. “Mr. Healy has been removed from duty at this time while the department is reviewing all of our disciplinary options with legal counsel. We strongly suggest that Mr. Healy offer a public apology for his personal statements. The reaction of the Fire Department will be swift, but enforcement of our high standards must be done properly and in accordance with state law.”

The department also said it does not condone Healy’s statement or his views and that its mission is to protect all residents. “Mr. Healy’s post was insensitive and inappropriate at a time when all people should be unified against hate and discrimination. The members of the Fire Department are frankly embarrassed and assure the community that these statements do not reflect the views of our volunteer firefighters.”