Hamilton man faces charges after stealing ambulance and crashing into building

A Hamilton man is due to appear in court today after he allegedly stole an ambulance and crashed it into a building on Sunday afternoon.

The 32-year-old man was being treated by paramedics on Ulster Street in Whitiora when he became aggressive and threatening, forcing the crew to flee the scene, police said.

The man then got into the driver’s seat and drove the ambulance for a short distance before crashing it into a lodge nearby, causing significant damage to both the vehicle and the building.

Police arrested the man without incident and charged him with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle. He is set to appear in the Hamilton District Court this morning.

Hato Hone St John said the ambulance officers involved were receiving support and that any assault or abuse against them was unacceptable and would not be tolerated.

The ambulance has been taken off the road for repairs and replaced with another vehicle, the organisation said.

Hato Hone St John is supporting police with their investigation.