I don't believe the fireman individually was in the wrong. He should've been protected by Good Samaritan laws (which are oddly, pretty strong in California). Sneaking up on the guy was probably a bad idea, but trying to grab him was not. Poop happens.

However, if there is a clear (that'll be the boner to prove) procedural breakdown, the deparment and/or city is liable.

 

So where's the Youtube version showing this guy hitting the ground?

 

wrong or not, i feel sorry for the firefighter, since he's probably going to replay this in his mind more than anyone