Firefighters were pelted with bricks in an unprovoked attack while attending a blaze in Newcastle. A fire crew were called to a report of a rubbish fire in the Blakelaw area of the city at 9.41pm on Wednesday night.
Attack during rubbish fire response
Firefighters had several items, including bricks, thrown at them as they carried out their duties. There were no injuries but the fire engine sustained significant damage and has had to be temporarily taken off the road.
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) has now been left without a vital frontline resource. Chief Fire Officer Stewart Nicholson slammed the "unacceptable" attack which places additional pressure on neighbouring crews and can increase response times to other emergencies.
Chief Fire Officer condemns assault
He said: "An attack on our firefighters is an attack on the communities we serve. Our crews responded to what was reported as a rubbish fire with the sole intention of protecting people and keeping our community safe.
"Instead, they were subjected to an unacceptable and dangerous assault where bricks were thrown at them and their appliance. While I am relieved that no one was injured, the impact of these incidents cannot be underestimated."
The damage caused meant a fire appliance had to be taken off the road, leaving us with one less resource available to respond to emergencies. This can result in delays to attending other incidents where people may be in urgent need of our help.
Appeal for information
"Our firefighters are ordinary people doing an extraordinary job. They are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters who should never face violence simply for carrying out their duties.
"Anyone with information about this incident should come forward. Attacks on emergency service workers are completely unacceptable and those responsible must be held accountable."
Anyone with information can contact FireStoppers anonymously on 0800 169 5558.
