Firefighter Pummeled While Battling Blaze in Thornton Heath
A firefighter was viciously attacked while tackling a fire in the early hours of Tuesday morning in Thornton Heath. London’s 1 Fire Brigade scrambled four crews and an aerial ladder platform to an address on Kensington Avenue just after midnight, responding to reports of a blaze.
Smoke Billows as Firefighters Face Brutal Assault
Smoke poured from the roof of the multi-residential building. Firefighters in breathing apparatus rushed inside to evacuate residents. That’s when two firefighters were set upon, battered with punches.
One suffered a jaw injury but avoided worse thanks to his helmet. Paramedics treated him at the scene. The second firefighter was also attacked and taken to Croydon Hospital.
Police Launch Probe Into Fire Attack
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has launched an investigation into the fire’s cause. Meanwhile, Met Police are probing the unprovoked assault against the firefighters, believed to be stationed at Norbury.
London Fire Brigade Deputy Commissioner Richard Mills blasted the attack: “This abhorrent and unprovoked attack on a firefighter is completely unacceptable. During a global pandemic, when emergency services workers are risking everything to protect the public, it is even more shocking.
“The firefighter was entering a burning building to save lives. If not for his helmet, he could have sustained serious head injuries. Thankfully, he’s now discharged from hospital.
“We take attacks on firefighters extremely seriously and support the Assaults on Emergency Workers Act, which toughens sentencing for these offences. We will work closely with the Metropolitan Police to bring those responsible to justice.”
