Full Breakdown
Stolen Ambulance Chase Ends in Fatal Shooting, I-35 Closed for Hours
8/14/2026, 9:31:49 AM
Incident Overview
Early Thursday morning, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers were alerted at about 6:30 a.m. that a Fort Worth Fire/EMS ambulance had been stolen and was traveling southbound on I-35 in Williamson County. Troopers located the vehicle, activated their emergency lights, and attempted a traffic stop. The driver refused to stop, evaded the troopers, and deliberately rammed multiple civilian vehicles as the ambulance entered the upper deck of I-35 near U.S. 290 in Austin. After a failed pursuit-intervention technique, a DPS trooper discharged his firearm, striking the driver, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect’s identity has not been released.
Law-Enforcement Response
DPS officials, including Sgt. Jason Galaviz, said troopers first tried a PIT maneuver to halt the ambulance, but the maneuver was ineffective. The Texas Rangers were dispatched to investigate the officer-involved shooting, and the Austin Police Department assisted with traffic control. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) later reported that all southbound lanes of I-35—from U.S. 183 to Airport Boulevard, encompassing both upper and lower decks—were reopened that afternoon.
Impact on Traffic and Public Safety
The incident forced the closure of the upper deck of I-35 for several hours, prompting officials to urge drivers to use alternate routes. One person was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries resulting from a collision with the ambulance.
Agency Statements
- DPS, via Sgt. Galaviz, confirmed the ambulance was stolen from a Fort Worth fire station and described the driver’s actions as intentional ramming of vehicles.
- The Fort Worth Fire Department corroborated the theft and noted multiple agencies were involved in the response.
- TxDOT announced the reopening of the affected lanes after the scene was cleared.
Ongoing Investigation
The Texas Rangers continue to investigate the shooting, and DPS indicated the upper deck would remain closed until the investigation is complete, though the roadway was reopened later that day as conditions allowed. Drivers are advised to stay alert for any further updates from law-enforcement agencies.
