NE Ambulance Going to Call Blocked by Protesters

A Nebraska ambulance on its way to an emergency was blocked by protesters Tuesday.

The Grand Island Fire Department was responding to a car accident on Interstate 80, the department said in an online post. An ambulance was dispatched with its lights and siren on when it ran into protesters on the way to the scene.

"Last night, a few people walked out and attempted to obstruct a responding ambulance (with lights and sirens) on South Locust during what was an otherwise peaceful exercise of their First Amendment right," the department said. "The ambulance and crew were dispatched to I-80 for a car accident, fortunately those involved with the accident were treated and will be okay."

In its post about the incident, the department echoed sentiments voiced by the head of the International Association of Fire Chiefs concerning attacks on firefighters and first responders.

"We take pride in caring for all who call upon our service, we do not discriminate who is cared for or whose house/business is protected," the department stated. "We ask that if you further exercise your First Amendment right of free speech, please be safe and allow emergency vehicles to freely pass."