Los Angeles, California – Officers with the Los Angeles Police Department pursued a driver in a stolen ambulance through the San Fernando Valley on Friday night, triggering a tense freeway chase that unfolded across multiple major roadways.
Ambulance Confirmed Stolen From LAFD
Police confirmed that the ambulance involved in the pursuit belongs to the Los Angeles Fire Department. The circumstances surrounding how the suspect gained access to the emergency vehicle remain under investigation. Authorities have not yet clarified whether the ambulance was taken from a fire station, hospital area, or another secured location.
Based on identifying numbers visible on the exterior of the ambulance, officials believe the vehicle may be assigned to an LAFD station in Granada Hills, though this detail has not been formally confirmed.
Chase Begins on the 210 Freeway
The pursuit was already underway when aerial footage captured the scene shortly before 9:45 p.m. The ambulance was seen traveling at high speeds on the westbound 210 Freeway, with at least five LAPD patrol vehicles following closely behind.
Video from Sky5 showed the ambulance weaving through traffic while maintaining freeway speeds, raising immediate concerns about public safety. Despite the size and weight of the emergency vehicle, the driver appeared to have little difficulty maneuvering through lanes during the pursuit.
Uncertainty Over Passengers and Motive
At this stage, it is unclear whether anyone else was inside the ambulance at the time of the chase. Police have not confirmed if a patient, medical equipment, or additional passengers were present, nor have they released information about the suspect’s identity or possible motive.
Emergency vehicles like ambulances are equipped with medical gear, oxygen tanks, and other equipment that can pose additional risks if mishandled or involved in a collision. Officers appeared to keep a controlled distance during parts of the chase, a standard tactic when pursuing larger or more dangerous vehicles.
Transition Onto the 5 Freeway
As the pursuit continued, the suspect transitioned onto the northbound 5 Freeway, still traveling at speed. Traffic conditions appeared lighter than usual, which may have reduced the immediate risk to other drivers, though law enforcement continued monitoring the situation closely.
Shortly after the transition, Sky5 was forced to disengage from aerial coverage. Station officials cited heavy fog and weather-related safety concerns, which made continued flight operations unsafe. As a result, live aerial footage ended before the chase concluded.
What Happens Next in Police Chases Involving Emergency Vehicles
Police pursuits involving stolen emergency vehicles are relatively rare but considered especially dangerous due to the size, weight, and specialized equipment inside these units. Law enforcement agencies typically weigh several factors during such chases, including:
- Speed and driving behavior of the suspect
- Traffic density and road conditions
- Weather and visibility
- Risk to pedestrians and other motorists
- Potential danger posed by the vehicle itself
In some cases, police may choose to reduce active pursuit and rely on aerial tracking, coordinated containment, or later arrest strategies. However, weather conditions Friday night removed that option.
Investigation Ongoing
As of now, LAPD has not released information on whether the suspect was eventually apprehended, whether the ambulance was recovered without damage, or if any injuries occurred during the incident. Investigators are expected to review surveillance footage, vehicle tracking data, and LAFD security protocols as part of the case.
Officials will also likely examine how access to the ambulance was obtained, particularly if it was taken from a secured facility. Unauthorized use of emergency vehicles can result in multiple felony charges, including vehicle theft, evading police, and endangering public safety.
Public Safety Reminder
Authorities remind the public that if they encounter a police pursuit, they should avoid engaging, pull over safely when possible, and allow emergency responders clear access. Stolen emergency vehicles pose unpredictable risks, and maintaining distance is critical for everyone’s safety.
This is a developing story, and updates are expected as more information becomes available from police and fire officials.
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