Wisconsin Man Accused of Stealing Ambulance With Critically Ill Patient Inside, Threatening Officers During Pursuit
A Wisconsin man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he stole an ambulance with a critically ill patient inside and led police on a dangerous multi-mile chase.
The alarming incident unfolded in Wisconsin Rapids, where emergency crews had been responding to a medical situation. According to the Wisconsin Rapids Police Department, paramedics were attending to a patient when a bystander suddenly entered the driver’s seat of the ambulance and drove off.
Patient Inside During High-Speed Chase
Investigators say the ambulance was taken while a seriously ill patient was secured in the rear compartment. Authorities later confirmed the patient was suffering from a life-threatening medical condition and required immediate care.
The suspect, identified as Benjamin Feltz, allegedly sped away with emergency lights still activated. Officers from multiple agencies pursued the vehicle for approximately 18 miles across parts of Wood County.
During the chase, police say the suspect drove erratically and ignored commands to stop. Tire deflation devices were deployed in an attempt to bring the vehicle under control.
Alleged Threats to Officers
According to court documents, Feltz reportedly made threatening remarks toward responding officers during the confrontation. Authorities say his behavior created an extreme risk to the patient, emergency responders, and the public.
The pursuit ended after law enforcement disabled the vehicle in a rural area near Pittsville. Officers were able to safely remove the patient and take the suspect into custody without further injuries.
The patient was transferred to another ambulance and transported to a hospital for continued treatment.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Feltz has been charged with multiple offenses, including:
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First-degree recklessly endangering safety
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Vehicle theft
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Fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement
He is currently being held at the Wood County Jail pending further court proceedings. A judge has ordered a competency evaluation as part of the legal process.
If convicted, he could face significant prison time under Wisconsin law.
Public Safety Concerns
The incident has raised serious questions about emergency vehicle security and the vulnerability of patients during medical transport. Authorities emphasized that while no fatalities occurred during the chase, the situation could have ended much worse.
Officials are urging residents to avoid interfering with emergency operations and to immediately report suspicious activity around first responders.
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