We now know what happened earlier this month with regard to reports of a stolen ambulance and subsequent police chase in St. Joseph.
On August 5, just before 10 pm ET, law enforcement confirms they received reports of a stolen Medic One ambulance. According to Michigan State Police spokesperson, Lt. DuWayne Robinson, the ambulance was left running outside of Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph, preparing to transport a patient. That’s when 31-year-old Aurelio Alex Magallan allegedly entered the unoccupied ambulance and drove off.
Robinson said Magallan had been at the hospital for undisclosed treatment and was waiting for his parents to give him a ride home. That’s when Magallan apparently decided to take the running ambulance and drive himself home.
On learning of the apparent theft, the ambulance crew notified their company who then notified police.
A Michigan State Police officer spotted the ambulance in the Scottdale area and attempted a traffic stop. The suspect continued driving before finally stopping at Linco Road near Stevensville. That’s when the suspect surrendered without incident.
MSP said nothing appears to have been damaged or stolen from the ambulance. The reason given that the ambulance was left running was to power equipment related to the patient transfer.
At last report, Magallan remains in the Berrien County Jail on charges of unlawful drive away of a motor vehicle, fleeing a police officer, and assault. Police said the ambulance was returned to Medic One.
