Man accused of stabbing EMT outside Mount Sinai West alleges EMTs 'kidnapped him'
NEW YORK (WABC) -- There were wild revelations in court as the man accused of stabbing an EMT inside her ambulance was arraigned.
Among the evidence defendant Rudy Garcia confessed -- telling police that he had been kidnapped. He also said that he used a large kitchen knife which was hidden in his boot.
Garcia is charged with attempted murder and assault.
The victim was stabbed in her chest, arm and leg.
She may have saved her own life by curling up to block her chest.
According to the FDNY, there have been 121 attacks on EMTs so far this year.
The EMT's union released a statement saying:
"The horrific stabbing of an EMT by her patient last night underscores the dangers faced by emergency medical workers every day. 1199SEIU is closely monitoring the situation and our members are praying for their colleague's swift and full recovery. Violence against healthcare workers is all too common, and New York must do all it can to ensure that these frontline heroes are able to do their jobs free from the threat of physical harm. More resources must be directed towards the staffing and safety of EMTs and paramedics citywide, so that workers aren't placed in situations where they are unable to protect themselves. Ensuring appropriate staffing levels, shifts, rest time, enhanced training on de-escalation and situational awareness, and the support of other first responders is imperative. All workers have the right to a safe workplace, and in the field of healthcare-where often every second counts to save a life-this is especially critical."
Mayor Eric Adams on Thursday, acknowledged the challenges EMTs face.
"So many like her are out there every single day, taking care of New Yorkers under incredibly difficult conditions," he said. "I would like to personally thank her for the service."
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