A man was arrested Thursday evening after allegedly jumping in front of a moving firetruck, attacking firefighters, and then barricading himself inside the emergency vehicle, according to fire officials and law enforcement.
The incident occurred just before 7 p.m. as a crew of paramedics with the Orange County Fire Authority was returning to their station after responding to a separate call. While traveling along Knott Avenue, a man on a bicycle reportedly swerved into the road and stopped directly in the path of the fire engine, Orange County Fire Authority Battalion Chief Chuck Fedak said.
The man then climbed onto the firetruck, entered the cab, and began physically assaulting the firefighters on board. The crew quickly exited the vehicle for safety, after which the man locked himself inside, according to authorities.
Video captured by a bystander shows the chaotic scene that followed, as multiple Buena Park Police officers, with support from Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies, surrounded the firetruck. Officers can be seen attempting to gain access through the doors and windows, eventually managing to pull the suspect out after a prolonged struggle.
During the arrest, the man continued to resist and bit one of the officers on the hand, according to video from the scene. He was eventually subdued and transported to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation.
Three firefighters involved in the incident also sustained minor injuries and were taken to the hospital for treatment, Fedak said. All are expected to recover.
Authorities have not released the identity of the suspect, and a possible motive remains unclear. Police have not said whether drugs or mental health issues may have played a role in the confrontation.
The investigation remains ongoing.
