I have not seen straight up personal attacks in a peer review
Then maybe we are starting a new fad? Look, I really do not think much said here by you, the new Bob, or anyone has been "over the top"...yet. Peer review is personal by nature, as you have someone who presents their hard work for critique, and...well, there are criticisms. Add in the spectators who take sides, and it seems inevitable it becomes somewhat of a knock down, drag out affair. The way I see it, there is no changing that, as that is what is required to get to the truth, so may as well embrace it.
That does not mean it should not be refferreed, and kept somewhat civil. Insinuations without proof, character assassination, slander, libel, etc. have to be kept out of it of course. That is where moderation comes in....here at least.