Paramedics attacked in Longford housing estate

Two paramedics were forced to use a spinal board to defend themselves after they were assaulted while responding to a 999 call in Longford town on Monday morning.

The Leader has learned the two ambulance workers called to a private house in the Gleann Riada estate shortly after 3am where a party was in full flow.

As they approached the door of the house, a number of occupants from inside suddenly emerged resulting in an altercation taking place.

In a desperate attempt to defend themselves, one of the paramedics was forced to use a spinal board from the parked ambulance outside.

It’s believed several people who had been attending the party at the time were involved, some of whom chased the ambulance personnel from the scene and down the street.

The incident was later reported to Longford Gardai where a full investigation is currently in operation.

No damage was caused to the ambulance itself although one of the paramedics received treatment from MIDOC, an out of hours GP service.

A Garda spokesman told the Leader earlier this morning (Wednesday) they are treating the incident “extremely seriously” and have urged witnesses to contact them at Longford Garda Station (043) 3350570.