TAMPA, FL – A 43-year-old Florida man, Michael J. Esquilin, of Tampa, was arrested late Saturday night, March 15, 2025, after allegedly stealing a Tampa Fire Rescue ambulance and leading Florida Highway Patrol troopers on a chase through the city.
The incident began around 8:28 p.m. when Esquilin reportedly took the ambulance from HCA South Tampa Hospital. Authorities located the stolen vehicle within 10 minutes near South Esperanza Avenue and West Bay to Bay Boulevard. When troopers attempted a traffic stop, Esquilin allegedly fled, initiating a dangerous pursuit.
According to FHP troopers, Esquilin disregarded traffic laws during the chase, running stop signs, driving on the wrong side of the road, and narrowly avoiding collisions with other vehicles. The pursuit came to an end at the intersection of South Hubert Avenue and West Empedrado Street, where Esquilin stopped the ambulance.
Troopers observed the Florida man finishing a beer in full view of law enforcement before attempting to apprehend him.
Troopers say that Esquilin resisted arrest by clinging to the steering wheel but was ultimately taken into custody. During questioning, he allegedly admitted to drinking for two days prior to the incident and claimed he stole the ambulance after emergency personnel refused to give him a ride home.
Esquilin now faces a slew of charges, including burglary of an emergency vehicle, grand theft of an emergency vehicle, fleeing and eluding, driving with a suspended license, DUI, and resisting arrest.
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