Changing times prompt ballistic gear upgrade for ambulance crews

The shooting death of Brackenridge police Chief Justin McIntire in 2023 continues to shape the way local emergency personnel operate.

Eureka Community Ambulance in Tarentum and Citizens Hose EMS in Harrison are ramping up ballistic protection as a direct result of the McIntire ambush, Eureka Chief Brad James said.

“It’s because of today’s society,” he said. “There was a time when we didn’t have to worry about as much violence.”

The EMS agencies bought 24 bulletproof vests — 12 for each group — that can be worn for everyday calls. They also could be critical when EMS responds with police on drug raids, warrant issues or other incidents.

“When EMS is on standby, we need to be able to safely provide care in that hot zone,” James said.

There are also a few EMS members that are tactically trained paramedics who act as part of law enforcement interventions.

Changing times prompted an upgrade to the protective gear that has long been considered mostly supplemental by local ambulance crews.

This year, there have been three notable violent attacks on EMS providers across the country. Among them was an April incident in which Kansas City firefighter-paramedic Graham Hoffman was stabbed and killed by a patient, according to Fox 4 News.

A 2024 report, “Understanding Violence Against EMS,” found that 80% of EMS workers have reported a work-related physical assault.

“Police see it all the time,” James said, “but fire and EMS didn’t used to have to deal with it as often.”

Citizens Hose EMS Supervisor Jim Erb said both groups have owned a minimal number of ballistic vests for years but the gear wasn’t size-specific and was outdated.

A fundraising campaign took about 18 months but brought in $19,000 to cover the cost of the vests. Money was raised through help from local fraternal organizations and fire departments, private donations and a grant from the Alle-Kiski Health Foundation.

It’s money that could not have been budgeted otherwise because of ongoing constraints, Erb said.

An anonymous donor also paid for helmets and goggles.

The departments are seeking eight more vests, four for each group, and continue to collect donations.

“Whether for a serious medical call with mental health issues or uncooperative patients, this is protection we will use,” Erb said. “It doesn’t happen often, but it’s a different way to keep us safe.”