Firefighter charged in man's assault over slow food order

BROOKLINE, Mass. -- A firefighter is accused of beating a man after he was too slow to order his food, reports CBS Boston.

The incident reportedly occurred Sunday around 10:45 p.m at a taqueria in Brookline, outside Boston. According to a police report, witnesses saw firefighter Joseph Ward throw a bottle at the victim, hitting him in the upper back.

The 37-year-old firefighter allegedly straddled the man and began punching him with both hands -- multiple times, according to the station. Ward is also accused of kicking the man.

Ward was reportedly seen cursing at the victim, who is apparently homeless, reports CBS Boston.

A witness told the station that when she yelled "stop," Ward ran down a side street, where he was arrested. The victim was taken to the hospital for observation.

Surveillance video reportedly captured the alleged assault.

Ward has since been placed on administrative leave, according to CBS Boston. He was charged with assault and battery and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.