Friday evening in the San Fernando Valley, a high-speed pursuit unfolded on the 14 Freeway as LAPD officers chased a stolen ambulance. The vehicle, equipped with flashing emergency lights, was heading northbound toward Palmdale. Authorities later confirmed that no occupants were inside the ambulance during the chase.
The Chase Begins
The pursuit began after LAPD received a report of a stolen ambulance. Officers positioned several squad cars along the freeway to intercept the vehicle. The ambulance accelerated away, maintaining its emergency lighting.
The ambulance’s northbound trajectory took it toward Palmdale, a distance that increased the urgency of the chase. The vehicle’s emergency lights were active, signaling a potential first-responder operation. Police noted the vehicle’s rapid speed as they closed in.
As the chase progressed, LAPD maintained a tight pursuit, keeping the ambulance within visual contact. The officers’ priority was to prevent the vehicle from reaching a populated area. The chase continued until the vehicle’s speed began to decrease.
Weather and Tracking Challenges
Weather restrictions in the region impacted the chase’s aerial coverage. NewsChopper4, the local news helicopter, was unable to continue tracking the pursuit due to these restrictions. The loss of aerial footage limited real-time updates for the public.
Despite the lack of helicopter coverage, ground units remained in contact with the ambulance. The LAPD squad cars adjusted their positions to keep the ambulance within line of sight. The pursuit proceeded without any aerial assistance.
Stolen Ambulance Details
According to LA City Fire, the ambulance was stolen at the scene of an incident. The exact circumstances of how the suspect removed the vehicle are not immediately available. Authorities are investigating the theft’s details.
The ambulance was traveling with emergency lights on, indicating it was in an active response mode when it was taken. No individuals were inside the vehicle during the pursuit, as confirmed by authorities. This detail was highlighted in the official statements.
The fact that the ambulance was stolen from a first-responder incident raises concerns about the security of emergency vehicles. Police are reviewing protocols to prevent future thefts. The investigation remains ongoing.
Law Enforcement Response
Several LAPD squad cars were trailing the ambulance throughout the pursuit. Officers coordinated to maintain a safe distance while keeping the vehicle in sight. The squad’s presence was crucial in preventing the ambulance from reaching a populated area.
The California Highway Patrol took over the chase after the LAPD units reached the end of their operational range. CHP officers deployed a spike strip to disable the ambulance’s wheels. The spike strip effectively halted the vehicle’s motion.
Following the vehicle’s immobilization, CHP officers moved in to apprehend the suspect. The suspect was taken into custody without incident. Police confirmed that the suspect had no occupants inside the ambulance.
The successful capture ended the high-speed pursuit on the 14 Freeway. Authorities thanked the cooperating officers for their swift action. The incident was later broadcast by NBC4 News at 11 p.m. on December 19, 2025.
Capture of the Suspect
The suspect was apprehended by CHP officers after the spike strip disabled the ambulance. No occupants were found inside the vehicle during the arrest. The suspect was taken into custody at the scene.
Law enforcement officials reviewed the evidence gathered during the pursuit. The ambulance’s emergency lights and the lack of occupants were noted in the official report. The suspect’s identity has not been released publicly.
The incident highlights the importance of rapid response and inter-agency cooperation. The combined efforts of LAPD and CHP were instrumental in resolving the pursuit. The case is now closed pending further investigation.
Key Takeaways
- LAPD chased a stolen ambulance on the 14 Freeway northbound toward Palmdale.
- No occupants were inside the ambulance during the pursuit.
- CHP used a spike strip to disable the vehicle and secured the suspect.
The incident underscores the need for vigilance in securing emergency vehicles. The cooperation between LAPD and CHP ensured the safety of the public. Authorities will continue to investigate the theft’s origins.
