Attack on firefighters in Tinsley is condemned

It happened as crews dealt with a fire at a terraced property on Lifford Street, Tinsley.

Tony Carlin, area manager at South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue, said: “We are absolutely appalled that our firefighters appear to have been targeted in this way.

“Attacks like this place the safety of our firefighters, and the people they are trying to protect, at risk. 

“Thankfully, this type of incident is extremely rare in South Yorkshire and it is only a tiny minority of people who would ever consider acting in such an irresponsible and dangerous way.

“However, even one attack on a firefighter is completely unacceptable. We will work alongside the police to fully investigate any attacks and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”

CCTV from fire engines has been passed to South Yorkshire Police after the incident at 8pm on Tuesday.

The Assaults on Emergency Services Workers (Offences) Act 2018 — also known as Protect the Protectors — received Royal Assent earlier this year and has since come into force.

Firefighters, police officers, prison officers and NHS staff are among those covered by the new law, which introduces tougher sentences for people who attack emergency services personnel.

Anyone with information about the attack is urged to call police on 101.