"Appalling" attack on Bristol ambulance crew caught on camera
It could have caused a "catastrophic" explosion
Last updated 14th Nov 2022
It is pure luck that an attack on an ambulance crew in Bristol did not cause a "catastrophic" explosion.
That's what the South Western Ambulance Service (SWASFT) has told us after fireworks were thrown at one of their crews back on Sunday 6 November.
It happened in Birchwood Road in the Broomhill area of the city, at around 5:40pm while the ambulance was stationary.
In a statement SWASFT say the crew first realised something was happening when they heard a firework explode nearby.
Shortly afterwards another then hit the drivers side window and bounced off the bonnet.
Two cars then pulled up alongside the ambulance and we're told around 20 people in hoods and balaclavas gathered on the other side of the road and behind the ambulance.
The crew left the area as soon as the cars moved away and called 999 to report what happened.
Mike Jones, SWASFT’s Violence Prevention & Reduction Lead, says: “It’s appalling that a small group of individuals would risk the lives of three colleagues who have dedicated their own lives to saving other people.
“We are incredibly lucky that one of the fireworks did not cause the oxygen tanks in the ambulance to explode, which would have been catastrophic.
“Unacceptable behaviour towards our people will not be tolerated and we will take whatever action is necessary to protect them from harm.”
The ambulance service is now urging anyone with information about what happened to contact the police or Crimestoppers.
You can call 101, or, if you want to remain anonymous, speak to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.