Accused Melbourne paramedic attacker granted bail

A 21-year-old man has been released on bail after allegedly attacking an off-duty paramedic in Melbourne.

Joshua Burke is accused of following Erin*, 23, for more than 10 kilometres onto Bungower Road, Somerville, on November 1.

Police allegedly arrived at the scene to find the student paramedic bleeding and extremely distressed on the ground.

Meanwhile, Mr Burke allegedly fled the scene before handing himself in to Frankston Police.

Erin suffered a fractured eye socket, and is still unable to drive or see properly.

Today the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court heard the accused has anger issues and made full admissions to the assault, but claims it was in self-defence.

Mr Burke’s lawyer told the court after the verbal altercation the alleged victim kicked the Woolworths worker to the leg first and pushed his face, which caused the 21-year-old to strike.

The bio-medical student now faces 10 charges including recklessly causing serious injury and assaulting an emergency worker while on duty.

Mr Burke was supported by his family today, with his mother Vicky telling the court her son suffers from anxiety and depression.

In granting bail, the magistrate took into account the fact he had no priors and imposed strict conditions.

Mrs Burke told the court her son has a doctor’s appointment to see a psychiatrist booked in for 5pm tomorrow.

Watch the full news bulletin on 9Now