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Chicago paramedics take down man after he tries to rob them

Paramedics of Ambulance 24 faced a man implying he had a gun while on a call for trouble breathing

CHICAGO — Two Chicago Fire Department paramedics were attacked and robbed overnight but managed to overpower the robber.

The paramedics were called to a report of a person having trouble breathing on Dec. 23, but when they arrived, the man refused medical treatment, CBS Chicago reported.

“While they were there, someone attempted to rob them and insinuated they had a weapon,” Chicago Firefighters Union President Patrick Cleary said. “They overpowered that person, and found out he didn’t have a weapon, held him down, called for a 10-1 and police arrived and arrested him.”

Police said the robber implied he had a gun, but the unarmed medics defended themselves using only their hands, CBS Chicago reported.

The robber stole the paramedics’ money and cellphone, which were recovered after his arrest. Police reported he also assaulted two officers during his arrest.

The paramedics were treated for minor injuries at Holy Cross Hospital and later released.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.