MILLVILLE, DE — Two volunteer firefighters have been arrested in connection with a hate crime investigation at the Millville Volunteer Fire Company, Delaware State Police announced.
Jay Droney, 27, of Millville, and Jordan Hastings, 23, of Delmar, were taken into custody after detectives concluded a probe into an incident that occurred more than a year ago at the fire station on Atlantic Avenue.
According to police, on April 9, 2025, administrators from the Millville Volunteer Fire Company contacted Delaware State Police Troop 4 Major Crimes Unit to report a previously undisclosed hate crime. The report revealed a disturbing February 2024 incident in which Droney and Hastings allegedly chased a fire company employee through the station with a rope fashioned into a noose.
During the incident, Droney reportedly directed a racist remark at the victim, and detectives later determined he made additional racist comments toward the individual on multiple occasions following the initial event.
Key Points
- Jay Droney and Jordan Hastings were arrested following a hate crime at a Delaware fire station.
- The pair allegedly chased a coworker with a noose-shaped rope and used racial slurs.
- Investigators obtained arrest warrants after an internal report in April 2025.
Warrants issued after internal report
Following a detailed investigation, detectives obtained warrants for Droney and Hastings on April 15. Specific charges have not yet been disclosed. Authorities have not confirmed whether the suspects are still affiliated with the fire department.
The Delaware State Police emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and thanked the fire company for coming forward with the report.