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Female EMT Assaulted As FDNY Fights 3-Alarm Fire In The Bronx: 'Disgusting And Inappropriate'

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Firefighters battled flames and bitter cold early Thursday morning in the Soundview section of the Bronx.

Flames broke out just after 6 a.m. inside a building on Westchester Avenue.

Investigators believe the fire started in a 99-Cent Store near the St. Lawrence Avenue 6 train station.

Authorities said a female EMT was assaulted at the scene after she was flagged down for someone needing help. Her partner came to her aid, and the suspect was arrested.

A Statement from FDNY Chief of EMS Operations Lillian Bonsignore earlier this morning from the scene of the 3-alarm fire...

Posted by New York City Fire Department (FDNY) on Thursday, January 28, 2021

FDNY Chief of EMS Operations Lillian Bonsignore called it "an unbelievable and despicable incident."

"It is disgusting and inappropriate. EMS is always here to save your life, always here to help you no matter what the situation, no matter who you are or where you come from, we are here, ready to assist," her statement continued. "None of our people should have to come to work and deal with a situation like that."

 

 

Several stores were damaged in the blaze, but there were no reports of injuries.

The MTA temporarily suspended service to the station.

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