Crime & Safety
2 Boston EMTs Attacked While Responding To Call
These first responders' lives were reportedly in danger as they were trying to ave the lives of others.
BOSTON, MA — Two Boston EMS EMTs were assaulted while responding to a call during the city's Caribbean Festival over the weekend.
The EMTs were attacked while attempting to provide medical care to a patient near 4 Cheney St. in Roxbury on Saturday, Aug. 29. Boston Police responded to Boston Medical Center at approximately 3:19 p.m. for a report of an assault and battery. Both EMTs suffered minor injuries and were treated and released.
"Our members put themselves in difficult and unpredictable situations every day to care for the people of Boston," Boston EMS said. "There is no place for violence against our members. They are there to help, and they deserve to go home safely after every shift."
Find out what's happening in Bostonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
According to the Boston Police Patrolmen's Association EMS Division, EMTs working during the festival were assaulted in incidents that included being bitten, kicked in the head, and struck by thrown objects. The union condemned the violence against its members, saying EMTs and paramedics should not be targeted while attempting to provide care.
"Even on the most challenging days, when the system is stretched thin and the demands placed on our EMS professionals are extraordinary—our members continue to show up and answer the call for the people of Boston," BPPA-EMS Division President Jason Yutkins said. "But, dedication to public service should never mean accepting unnecessary risks to their own lives and safety simply for doing their jobs."
Find out what's happening in Bostonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The assaults came during what the union described as an extremely busy day for Boston EMS, with fewer units available than the city requires to safely meet the demand for emergency medical services. EMTs and paramedics continued responding to calls throughout the day, including multiple shootings, stabbings, and other major traumatic injuries.
Boston EMS thanked Boston Police for its support and assistance following the incident. The BPPA-EMS Division also called on Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden to prosecute those responsible for the assaults to the fullest extent of the law.
No arrests had been made in connection with the assaults as of Sunday, and the incident remains under investigation.
See Also:
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
