Students Praised by Fire Chief for Heroic Actions after Helping Victim of Street Attack

Four students from Rainham’s Construction and Engineering Campus have been praised for their quick thinking and bravery after they rushed to help a member of the public who had suffered burns in an attack outside the college gates.

Electrical Installation students, Dima Antonuzenko, from Romford, Leo Aguda, from Romford and Haris Skopic, from South Ockendon, along with Construction Skills student Aston Jones, from Rainham, were walking back to college at lunchtime along New Road, when they witnessed an argument between two members of the public. When a liquid was thrown at one of the men, the students immediately went to his aid, called 999 and followed emergency advice while waiting for help to arrive. 

Their actions have been recognised by the London Fire Brigade, whose officers attended the scene. Sub Officer Tom Binder, from Barking Fire Station, praised the students for responding so quickly and calmly in a critical situation. 

He said: “During the early stages of the incident, these students acted with remarkable composure and courage by immediately applying water to the casualty’s face. Their swift actions were absolutely vital in preventing further injury and significantly contributed to reducing the severity of the burns. 

“Their behaviour exemplifies responsibility, awareness, and genuine care for others, qualities that reflect extremely well on them and on New City College.” 

He also praised college staff for their support and cooperation, adding: “Please accept our appreciation for the professionalism, calmness, and teamwork shown today. It helped ensure the emergency services could work quickly and effectively and truly made a difference.”

Recalling the incident, which happened in November, student Dima, said: “Me and my friends were walking back to college when we saw two men having an argument, then we realised that one of them needed first aid urgently. It looked like some kind of liquid had been thrown at him. I called 999 and they told me how to provide vital first aid so as to prevent any further injury or burns.” 

Emergency services arrived shortly afterwards, and fire officers and paramedics continued treatment at the scene. The man was taken to hospital and was later discharged.

Dima added: “I want to thank all the college staff and the emergency services who helped us and kept everything under control.” 

In recognition of their great citizenship and bravery, the four students were presented with awards and vouchers by Rainham Campus Principal Colleen Marshall.

Colleen said: “We are very proud of these students who showed exceptional community spirit, compassion and courage. Their response in a high-pressure situation was outstanding. This award is just a small token of thanks to recognise their actions. They were an absolute credit to New City College that day.

“We are delighted that the London Fire Brigade recognised their actions and that Sub Officer Tom Binder took time out to send such a heartfelt letter of commendation.”

Well done these students! L-R Ashton Jones, Lee Aguda, Dimitri Antonuzenko, Haris Skopic.

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