A man has been arrested after police say an ambulance was driven away from outside Royal Stoke University Hospital while a patient and a paramedic were still on board. The episode on 25 March prompted a large police response in Chesterton, including a dog unit and an aerial search, and has left authorities investigating how the vehicle was taken.
How the incident unfolded
Staffordshire Police were called at about 8.15pm after an ambulance was reportedly taken from the hospital forecourt. Officers say a paramedic, a patient and a third person were in the rear of the vehicle when it was driven off.
Police followed the vehicle and tracked it to an Esso petrol station on the A34 at the junction of Liverpool Road and London Road on the outskirts of Chesterton. A search involving a dog handler, patrols and an aircraft extended to nearby marshland before a suspect was detained.
The force later confirmed a 31‑year‑old man from Stoke‑on‑Trent was arrested on suspicion of kidnap, vehicle theft, drink‑driving and failing to provide a specimen. He remains in custody and is due to be questioned.
- When: Around 8.15pm on 25 March
- Where: Outside Royal Stoke University Hospital; vehicle tracked to A34 Esso petrol station (Liverpool Road/London Road), Chesterton
- People involved: A paramedic, a patient and another person were in the ambulance; no injuries reported
- Police action: Dog unit, aircraft and ground searches; suspect arrested and in custody
- Incident reference: 743 of 25 March (contact 101 with information)
Police statement and next steps
A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police said officers were called after a man entered an ambulance while it was parked at the hospital and drove off. They added that no one inside the vehicle was harmed.
Investigators are preparing to question the arrested man. Witnesses who saw anything relevant are asked to contact police on 101 and quote the incident number above.
The case remains live as officers continue enquiries.
Hi, I’m Benjamin, a member of the Sherburne County Citizen team. With a passion for writing and a deep interest in current affairs, I thoroughly enjoy bringing you the latest news and trends that affect our daily lives.
