Firefighters Hurl Abuse & Objects in Doncaster – Furious Crews Forced to Retreat
Firefighters were left ‘absolutely disgusted’ after being pelted with objects by a gang of youths while tackling a wheelie bin blaze in Doncaster. The crew arrived at Chestnut Avenue, Carcroft, just before 7pm on Wednesday (6 February) only to face verbal abuse and attacks.
Youths Launch Attack on Fire Crews
When firefighters showed up to put out the bin fire, the gang went from shouting insults to throwing random items at them. The assault was so bad, crews had to pull back until South Yorkshire Police arrived on scene.
Area Manager Andy Strelczenie, head of emergency response, condemned the behaviour: “Clearly this group set fire to the bin knowing we’d come and waited to attack us. This is totally unacceptable. Our firefighters risk their lives every day, and they don’t deserve abuse or violence.”
New Tougher Laws Could Mean Jail Time
This isn’t the first time emergency workers have been attacked during the bonfire season. The force is now working closely with police to track down the culprits and hold them to account.
Thanks to the recent Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Bill, anyone convicted of assaulting emergency personnel can face up to 12 months behind bars—doubling the previous maximum.
The Bill covers police, firefighters, prison staff, ambulance workers, search and rescue teams, and military personnel. It also makes attacking an emergency worker an aggravating factor, potentially increasing sentences for serious crimes.
Firefighters Demand Respect After Brutal Attack
Andy Strelczenie added: “We’re disgusted by these repeated attacks and will do everything to protect our crews. The new law sends a clear message: assaulting emergency workers won’t be tolerated and carries real consequences.”
The public is urged to show support and respect for frontline heroes risking their lives to keep communities safe.
