[Watch] Two paramedics overpower would-be robber during crisis call

What Chicagoans are calling a “despicable” crime took place on December 23, when two paramedics responded to an emergency in the middle of the night. While they were on scene treating a patient who had trouble breathing, a man attempted to rob the two paramedics.

“While they were there, someone attempted to rob them—insinuated they had a weapon,” Patrick Cleary, the Union President for the Chicago Firefighters, told CBS. “Normally [thieves will] steal tools off of an engine or a truck, so this is odd, but it does happen.”

The two men, unarmed, turned their attention to their attacker and quickly pinned him down with their bare hands. The robber managed to scurry into the night, taking their cell phones and some cash while they called police.

“They overpowered that person, and found out he didn’t have a weapon, held him down, called for a 10-1, and police arrived and arrested him,” Cleary said. “I mean, 10-1 for a cop for 10-1 for a fire, you get an immediate response.”

Officials were angered by the robbery attempt on those trying to save a life

Matt O’Shea, a fellow firefighter in the department, was shocked by the boldness of the criminal.

“The violent nature that goes on in so many neighborhoods—particularly in the overnight hours—makes it so dangerous for our paramedics to respond. Again, they are there to save lives,” he said. “We cannot stand for first responders racing to the scene to provide life-saving medical attention to someone in need to be attacked like this.”

Cleary was relieved the man was unarmed but pleased with the drivers’ quick reflexes and camaraderie.

“I’m just glad it didn’t end tragically. Could you imagine if the guy had a gun?” he said. “I’m proud of them that they overpowered this guy and put him down on the ground. Good job.”

The two paramedics took themselves to a nearby hospital, where they were treated for minor injuries. They’ve been discharged, and are back to their regular duty of saving lives.

Viewers were equally shocked and commended the drivers

“Paramedics have seen things that would scare most people. They know how to deal with unpredictability!” wrote a viewer. “Hats off to you for all you do. Please stay safe out there!”

Others noted the inability to perform live-saving procedures without fear of being robbed may be shedding light on a bigger issue.

“Paramedics can’t even do their job! Then people wonder why they don’t get help,” they wrote.

Another said it would have been interesting to see them walk into the hospital.

“That had to be a sight to see at the hospital. Two paramedics walking in with battle injuries,” they wrote.