Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) were assaulted while responding to a call involving an emotionally disturbed individual at an apartment building on Sedgwick Avenue in the Morris Heights neighborhood of the Bronx on Thursday night. The incident occurred shortly after 10 p.m., according to police reports.

Two EMTs, ages 32 and 20, sustained injuries during the attack. The older EMT suffered a deep laceration to his head that required staples, while the younger EMT sustained facial injuries. Both were transported to nearby hospitals and were reported to be in stable condition.

The suspect, 22-year-old Jose Bencosme, who resides in the building, was arrested at the scene without incident. He was charged with two counts of felony assault. Authorities indicated that no weapons were used during the attack, and Bencosme is not known to have a history of mental illness. The precise reason behind his emotional disturbance remains unclear.

Neighbors described the scene afterward, noting the presence of blood in the hallway and broken glass at the building’s entrance. One resident recounted hearing EMTs struggle to restrain Bencosme and observed a medic bleeding heavily. Another neighbor described Bencosme as a quiet and ordinarily well-behaved individual who has lived in the building for many years. Family members were also present during the incident, with the suspect’s mother reportedly urging him to calm down.

In addition to the two EMTs directly assaulted, three other EMS workers sustained minor injuries while attempting to reach their colleagues, including one who cut his hands on broken glass while trying to force entry through a locked door.

The incident has drawn attention to the risks faced by EMS personnel in New York City. Local EMS unions emphasized that assaults against medical responders have been increasing in recent years, with the number of attacks more than doubling between 2018 and 2021. The unions also highlighted ongoing concerns regarding pay disparities and working conditions compared to other city first responders, such as firefighters. These issues have contributed to staffing challenges, with some union officials warning of potential shortages that could delay emergency response times.

New York City’s mayor issued a statement expressing support for emergency medical workers, acknowledging their dedication and commitment while pledging to enhance protections for their safety on the job. The mayor did not, however, provide specific details on planned measures.

Jose Bencosme’s arraignment was pending as of Friday, and investigations into the circumstances leading to the incident remain ongoing.