A Swindon paramedic suffered a serious injury when he was ‘knocked unconscious’ by a patient.
The experienced ambulance crew member and his student paramedic colleague were attacked whilst attending a medical emergency in the town on Tuesday night (29 March).
The exact location of the incident has not yet been revealed, but Wiltshire 999s has learned that the paramedic suffered a broken eye socket and was ‘knocked unconscious’.
The student paramedic, in his third year of study, was also injured as he fought off the alleged preparator whilst trying to contact the police for assistance.
South Western Ambulance Service county commander Paul Birkett-Wendes labelled the pair a “credit to our service” following the attack.
In a message to Wiltshire-based ambulance colleagues, he wrote: “Many of you may be aware of the awful incident two of our team suffered last night.
“I’m sure you are as appalled as I, that yet again our colleagues have suffered physical injury whilst undertaking their duties. The awful assault happened last night and I have spoken with both crew members affected.
“I am incredibly proud of the professionalism they have both displayed during and after such an awful attack. Their courage and positivity in the face of such an awful incident is truly admirable.
“Despite it all, both are doing OK and they are grateful for your support and messages.”
Mr Birkett-Wendes claims the attack was caught on the paramedics’ body-worm camera – a piece of kit all Wiltshire ambulance crew members are now issued.
He confirmed that a suspect was arrested in connection with the incident.
Wiltshire Police was approached for comment.
