TAMPA, Fla. – A stolen Tampa Fire Rescue ambulance led Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) troopers on a pursuit across Tampa Saturday night, culminating in the driver finishing a beer before being arrested.
At approximately 8:28 PM on March 15, 2025, FHP troopers were alerted to the stolen ambulance from HCA South Tampa Hospital. Within ten minutes, troopers located the vehicle at South Esperanza Avenue and West Bay to Bay Boulevard.
READ: Unidentified Woman Killed After Being Struck By 6 Vehicles On Dale Mabry Highway In Lutz
When troopers attempted a traffic stop, the driver fled, without activating any emergency equipment. A pursuit ensued for several miles, during which the driver ran multiple stop signs, drove on the wrong side of the road, and nearly collided with other motorists.
The pursuit came to an end at the intersection of South Hubert Avenue and West Empedrado Street, where the driver stopped the ambulance and proceeded to finish drinking a beer in full view of the troopers.
As troopers and Tampa Police officers attempted to take the driver, the sole occupant of the ambulance, into custody, he resisted arrest by tightly gripping the steering wheel, according to troopers.
READ: Ridge Manor Woman Killed In SR-50 Collision With Tractor Trailer: Florida Highway Patrol
Once secured, the driver, identified as 43-year-old Michael J. Esquilin of Tampa, explained that he had been drinking for the past two days. He stated that he stole the ambulance after emergency personnel denied him a ride home in the vehicle.
Esquilin was arrested and charged with Burglary of an Emergency Vehicle, Grand Theft of an Emergency Vehicle, Fleeing & Eluding, Driving While License Suspended, DUI, and Resisting Arrest.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
