Brookline firefighter on leave after allegedly assaulting man

A Brookline firefighter appeared in court Tuesday to face assault charges after allegedly beating a homeless man who took too long to order food.

The victim told police he was ordering food at Anna’s Tacqueria about 10:45 p.m. when another customer asked him to hurry up, and the pair continued arguing after the food was served.

A report by the Brookline Tab said Ward, of Dorchester, told the man to hurry up while in line Sunday night.

One witness said Ward pushed, punched and kicked the victim before throwing food and a glass bottle at him while he was on the ground.

Joseph Ward, 37, was charged with assault and battery with a risky weapon after a fight with the man Sunday at Anna’s Taqueria, myfoxboston, com reports.

Ward is on administrative leave, according to the city manager.

The firefighter and the man then exchanged words and the man left the shop. Ward denied using anything other than his hands on the victim, authorities said.

‘I was afraid he was going to kill him’.

“The town is aware of Firefighter Ward’s arrest and has placed him on administrative leave immediately pending further investigation”, said Town Administrator Mel Kleckner.

The victim was reportedly homeless and was taken to the hospital for observation with a cut on his eyebrow.

The victim was hospitalized for minor injuries after the attack.