HUMBOLDT — A Humboldt volunteer firefighter is accused of driving a fire engine while intoxicated as he responded to a call.

Jeffrey R. Feaster, 42, of Dakota City, has been charged with one count of operating under the influence, first offense.

According to the criminal complaint, filed with the Humboldt County attorney’s office, on June 6, Feaster, in his role as a firefighter, responded to a traffic accident in the 1300 block of Fifth Avenue North in Humboldt at about 12:50 a.m.

The complaint stated Feaster was driving a 2009 Central States Fire Apparatus rescue unit.

It’s alleged that his breath smelled of “an alcohol-type substance.”

A preliminary breath test was done on Feaster, the complaint stated, which revealed his blood alcohol content was more than the legal limit of .08.

The complaint stated his blood alcohol content was .163 percent.

It further went on to state that two field sobriety tests were done on Feaster, including a walk and turn test and an eyesight test. The complaint said Feaster failed both.

Feaster, in the complaint, also allegedly had impaired balance and slurred speech.

Iowa Courts Online records indicate that Feaster had his initial appearance on his OWI charge on June 6. Magistrate Gregory Stoebe scheduled a preliminary hearing for Feaster on June 26 at 9 a.m.

Travis Goedken, Humboldt city administrator, said if he is found guilty, any potential consequences for Feaster from a city standpoint “would certainly be considered in the decision of the city.”

Goedken added, “This is a personnel matter that is actively being investigated, so I can’t provide any additional comment.”

Fire Chief Jim Gronbach didn’t reply to a phone call seeking comment on the situation.