Medic stabbed by patient in ambulance in North Philadelphia, police say

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A paramedic was stabbed by a patient in the back of an ambulance in North Philadelphia Thursday morning, police said.

Around 6:30 a.m., officials said a medic unit picked up a patient near 18th Street and Ridge Avenue. Initial reports said the patient had been stabbed, but police did not say what exactly his medical issue was.

As the ambulance was en route with the patient to Temple University Hospital, police said there was a tussle.

“The driver had noticed in the rearview mirror there’s a commotion in the back,” said Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore.

The medic who was driving pulled over at 22nd and Diamond streets. When he opened the doors, authorities said the patient ran out. The medic then saw that his partner was wounded and bleeding. He was rushed to the hospital.

“There was a wound to the right hand and the right side of the chest,” said Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson. “Our medic is currently in serious condition. Expected to make a full recovery, so we’re all thankful and grateful for that.”

The medic has been with the Philadelphia Fire Department for about eight years.

Police chased after the patient and quickly apprehended him. They recovered a knife. He has not been publicly identified, and there’s no word yet on charges.