A dramatic incident unfolded in Stoke-on-Trent when an ambulance was stolen from outside the Royal Stoke University Hospital with a patient and a paramedic still inside the vehicle. The theft occurred yesterday evening, sparking an immediate and extensive police response.
Major Police Operation Launched
Staffordshire Police swiftly deployed significant resources, including a dog handler and a force plane, to locate the stolen emergency vehicle. The ambulance was eventually found at an Esso petrol station on the A34 road near the village of Chesterton, close to the junction of Liverpool Road and London Road in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Suspect Apprehended After Foot Chase
The alleged thief attempted to flee on foot from the petrol station but was quickly apprehended by a police dog in the nearby marshland. Authorities confirmed that both the patient and the paramedic were unharmed during the entire ordeal, which lasted for a short period before the ambulance was recovered.
In a statement provided to the Daily Mail, Staffordshire Police detailed the sequence of events: "At about 8.15pm, we were called after a man got into an ambulance while it was parked at the hospital and drove off. A paramedic, a patient and another person were in the back of the ambulance at the time it was taken."
Arrest and Charges
Today, police have arrested a 31-year-old man from Stoke-on-Trent on suspicion of multiple offences. The charges include kidnap, vehicle theft, drink driving, and failing to provide a specimen for analysis. The suspect is currently in custody for questioning as the investigation continues.
Hospital Security Under Scrutiny
According to reports from the Stoke Sentinel, no keys were left in the ambulance at the time of the theft, raising questions about the security protocols for emergency vehicles parked at hospital premises. This incident has prompted discussions about safeguarding measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Staffordshire Police have appealed to the public for any additional information that could assist with their investigation. They urge witnesses or individuals with relevant details to contact them via phone at 101 or through the Live Chat feature on their official website, referencing incident number 743 of 25 March.
The quick response by law enforcement ensured that no injuries were sustained, but the event highlights potential vulnerabilities in the security of emergency medical services. Authorities are reviewing the circumstances to enhance safety and prevent such alarming thefts from happening again.
