Full Breakdown
Naked Man Steals Ambulance, Leads Police on 18-Mile Chase
2/22/2026, 4:24:22 AM
Incident Overview
On February 17, 2023, a significant incident unfolded in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, when a man, later identified as 37-year-old Benjamin L. Feltz from Nekoosa, stole an ambulance containing a patient. The event began around 5:37 p.m. while paramedics were providing medical care at a residence on 22nd Avenue South. As the ambulance was parked nearby, Feltz entered the vehicle's cab and drove off, prompting a police pursuit that lasted approximately 40 minutes and covered 18.2 miles.
Pursuit Details
The pursuit initiated by the Wisconsin Rapids Police Department involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Wood County Sheriff’s Office and the Wisconsin State Patrol. During the chase, Feltz drove at speeds reaching 70 mph, maneuvering around spike strips and navigating rough terrain before ultimately becoming stuck in a muddy field near Highway 73/80 in Pittsville. The police deployed a drone to assess the situation due to concerns for the patient's safety in the rear compartment of the ambulance.
Resolution and Arrest
After the vehicle was disabled, officers approached the ambulance with caution, using rifles and ballistic shields. Body camera footage captured the moment when officers ordered Feltz to exit the vehicle. He complied, emerging completely naked and without any weapons. He was subsequently taken into custody without incident. Both Feltz and the patient were reported uninjured and were later transported to Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital for evaluation.
Charges Filed
Feltz faces multiple charges, including operating a motor vehicle without the owner's consent, obstructing emergency personnel, recklessly endangering safety, and operating while intoxicated (third offense). He was booked into the Wood County Jail following the incident.
Official Statements & Responses
The Wisconsin Rapids Police Department expressed gratitude to the assisting agencies involved in the pursuit and apprehension of Feltz. They highlighted the collaborative efforts that ensured the safety of the patient and the successful resolution of the situation.
Criticism & Opposition
While no specific criticisms were noted in the sources, the unusual circumstances of the incident, including Feltz's state of undress and the nature of the crime, may raise questions about public safety and mental health issues that could have contributed to the event.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Come out of the ambulance! This is the Wood County Sheriff's Department. Come out with your hands in the air and surrender. You are surrounded,” — Wood County Sheriff's Department Officer
This incident underscores the complexities of emergency response situations and the challenges faced by law enforcement when dealing with unpredictable scenarios involving vulnerable individuals.
