Wisconsin Rapids, WI – On February 17, 2026, police engaged in a dramatic 40-minute chase after a naked suspect hijacked an ambulance while paramedics were treating a patient inside.

The incident began just after 5:30 p.m. when the ambulance was parked on 22nd Avenue South as paramedics attended to a patient. One unidentified individual jumped into the driver’s seat while a paramedic attempted to stop them. Safety concerns forced the paramedic to exit, and the suspect fled with the patient still inside.

Officers pursued the ambulance for more than 18 miles, eventually ending the chase in Pittsville. Police used tire-deflation devices to disable the front passenger-side tire, allowing officers to take the suspect, later identified as Benjamin Feltz, into custody without injury to him or the patient.

Minor damage to the ambulance was reported. Feltz now faces multiple charges, including vehicle theft, disorderly conduct, lewd and lascivious behavior, and operating a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent. Charges are being reviewed by the Wood County District Attorney’s Office.

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