Mosinee Ambulance. MWC file photo by Mike Leischner
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WI (WSAU-WAOW) – A dramatic pursuit of a stolen ambulance, with a patient inside, ended safely in Pittsville on Tuesday.
The ambulance was stolen from the 1400 block of 22nd Avenue South in Wisconsin Rapids, where it was parked while paramedics attended to a patient at a nearby home. The suspect, Benjamin L. Feltz, entered the vehicle and drove off, leading police on an 18.2-mile pursuit.
Wisconsin Rapids officers attempted to end the chase using tire-deflation devices, but these efforts were initially unsuccessful. As the pursuit continued into Pittsville, local police successfully deployed a tire-deflation device, causing the ambulance to become stuck in a muddy field near 8890 State Highway 73/80 in Pittsville.
Two paramedics were in the ambulance at the time. One got out to try to confront Feltz before he drove off, leaving the other inside to protect the patient. Officers add that the patient was secured and was not harmed during the chase.
Feltz was taken into custody without incident. The patient and Feltz were transported to Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital for evaluation. Charges against Feltz include disorderly conduct and operating a motor vehicle without consent. The Wisconsin Rapids Police Department expressed gratitude to the assisting agencies for their professionalism and coordination.
Comments