Naked Suspect Slipped Into Ambulance Cabin
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wisconsin — Benjamin L. Feltz, 37, was arrested after allegedly stealing an ambulance carrying a critically ill patient and leading police on a high-speed chase that lasted over 40 minutes.
According to arrest records, Feltz slipped into the ambulance's driver's cabin on Tuesday while two paramedics were loading a patient into the back of the vehicle. The staff heard a door close and discovered a naked man in the driver's seat.
When they asked Feltz to exit the vehicle, the suspect sped off. One paramedic jumped from the ambulance as it began to move, leaving the patient inside.
18-Mile Chase, Speeds Over 90 MPH
Police located the stolen ambulance and signaled it to stop, but the suspect continued driving, initiating a pursuit that spanned approximately 18 miles. The vehicle's speed at times exceeded 90 miles per hour.
According to records, the ambulance drove on dirt roads near the Cranberry Creek landfill, then onto Wisconsin Highway 73, weaving through other vehicles. The patient in the back of the ambulance reportedly cried out for help, fearing for their life.
Police deployed tire deflation devices. The suspect then drove off the road, crashed into a muddy cornfield near the town of Pittsfield and became stuck.
Intoxicated Suspect Claimed to Drink Cleaning Solution
Body camera footage from police showed Feltz exiting the vehicle naked before being apprehended.
According to records, the suspect appeared intoxicated, slurring his words, and claimed to have consumed about half a bottle of Fabuloso cleaning solution, in addition to using marijuana. Feltz had two prior convictions for driving under the influence and did not possess a valid driver's license.
Charged with Four Felonies, $100,000 Bail
Feltz was charged with four felonies and six misdemeanors, including felony recklessly endangering safety. Bail was set at $100,000.
The patient in the ambulance was transported to another medical facility after the incident. Authorities continue to investigate.
