Ambulance Stolen, Crashed Into DHS Building As Suspect Remains At Large

A brazen late-night crime in Meridian is raising serious concerns about public safety after a suspect allegedly stole an ambulance and deliberately crashed it into a building housing federal offices before attempting to ignite the vehicle.

According to WJAR, the stolen ambulance was driven from St. Luke’s and slammed into the St. Luke’s Portico North building, where Department of Homeland Security offices are located. Authorities say the suspect appeared to plan the attack in advance.

Meridian Police Chief Tracy Basterrechea revealed that gas cans were strategically hidden in nearby bushes before the vehicle was rammed into the structure. After the crash, the suspect reportedly poured gasoline or another accelerant in and around the ambulance but failed to set it ablaze before fleeing the scene.

St. Luke’s confirmed that hospital operations were not disrupted and that patient services continued without interruption. Fortunately, officials said no one was inside the impacted building at the time of the collision.

Canyon County Paramedics detailed how the vehicle was taken.

“At approximately 11:10 p.m. yesterday, a vehicle identified as a Canyon County Paramedics ambulance was unlawfully taken from the St. Luke’s West location,” the agency said.

“The individual who took the ambulance crashed the vehicle into the St. Luke’s North building located near Eagle Road and Franklin Road in Meridian.”

“No Canyon County Paramedics personnel were inside the ambulance at the time of the incident.”

“There are currently no confirmed injuries to members of the public or first responders connected to this event.”

“Our priority remains the safety and well being of the community and our staff.”

“We are cooperating fully with responding agencies and extend our gratitude to the Meridian Police Department and other partners for their support in this situation,” said Canyon County Paramedics Chief Michael Stowell.

“This is an ongoing investigation handled by Meridian Police Department.”

“No further information will be released at this time.”

Chief Basterrechea emphasized that investigators are treating the incident as an extremely serious offense, noting the potentially catastrophic consequences had the suspect successfully ignited the vehicle. A fire at a building containing federal offices could have resulted in significant loss of life and property.

Law enforcement officials have assured residents that there is no ongoing threat to the public at this time. However, the suspect remains at large.

The investigation has drawn a coordinated response from multiple agencies, including the FBI, Meridian Police Department, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Boise Police Department, Meridian Fire Department, and Idaho State Police.

As President Donald J. Trump’s administration continues prioritizing law and order in his second term, incidents like this underscore the importance of strong local and federal cooperation to safeguard communities and protect critical infrastructure.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact law enforcement as the search for the suspect continues.