VIRGINIA BEACH -- An alleged hazing incident involving a recent graduate of the training academy landed three Virginia Beach firefighters in the hot seat.

New recruit firefighter Miles Stitch was assigned to Station 9 off of Witchduck Road in Kempsville after graduation. Sources within the fire department and City Hall tell 13News about three weeks ago, Stitch's mentor, firefighter Frank Hays, teased him in a fashion often done with new recruits.

Sources say some of the teasing was racial, and when it did not seem to bother Stitch, Hays reportedly got angry and threw a knife at Stitch.

In a statement, Hay's attorney says he was fired. The statement reads, "This incident was blown completely out of proportion from what actually occurred, and is more likely simple comradery among firefighters."

Robert Valentine leads Station 9, but in a statement says he was on medical leave when the incident took place.

Valentine was suspended and stripped of his title as captain. His replacement, Gary Crighton, was disciplined as well.

Virginia Beach Councilwoman Reba McClanan said the incident shocked her, and is the kind of behavior that should never be tolerated on city property.