City of Titusville Terminates Police Chief Following Off-Duty Crash, Policy Violations

TITUSVILLE, FL — The City of Titusville terminated Police Chief John Lau on June 24, 2026, following an off-duty vehicle crash involving a city-owned vehicle and Chief Lau's refusal to submit to city requested alcohol testing, a direct violation of City Personnel Policy.

The incident occurred on June 23, 2026, at approximately 11:17 p.m. in Brevard County, outside Titusville city limits. Chief Lau was driving a city-owned vehicle at the time of the crash. The Florida Highway Patrol investigation determined no criminal charges will be filed. Questions regarding the crash investigation, investigative process, or conclusions reached should be directed to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Upon learning Chief Lau's involvement, the Titusville Police Department responded to the scene. A Patrol Sergeant and Patrol Major responded; the Sergeant had his body camera activated and photographs were taken. Officers observed, at the scene, a partially consumed vodka bottle and a metal cup. Based on these observations, Deputy Chief Wright directed a Commander to respond to the hospital and request that Chief Lau submit to alcohol testing (breath and/or blood draw), pursuant to City Personnel Policy, to determine whether alcohol was involved. Chief Lau refused both requests, constituting a violation of City Personnel Policy.