A stolen ambulance loaded with gasoline cans and driven at full speed into a federal building could have ended in catastrophe, but the suspect fled before striking a match—leaving investigators scrambling to understand why.
Story Snapshot
- Suspect stole a Canyon County Paramedics ambulance at 11:10 p.m. from St. Luke’s West in Meridian, Idaho, and rammed it into a building housing DHS offices
- Pre-staged gas cans retrieved from bushes indicate deliberate planning; accelerant poured around vehicle but never ignited before suspect fled
- Multi-agency manhunt involving FBI, local police, and state agencies continues with suspect still at large
- Building was empty at time of attack, resulting in no injuries despite serious structural damage
- Suspect description includes black shirt, tan pants, and medical-style mask
A Calculated Attack on Federal Territory
The suspect executed a meticulously planned assault on the St. Luke’s Portico North building near Eagle Road and Franklin Road in Meridian, Idaho. The building leases space to the Department of Homeland Security, making it federal property and elevating the severity of the crime. Meridian Police Chief Tracy Basterrechea characterized the incident as exceptionally serious, noting the potential for mass casualties had the accelerant ignited. The ambulance struck the building at approximately 25 mph, causing significant structural damage but stopping short of complete devastation.
Premeditation Reveals Disturbing Intent
The pre-staging of gasoline cans in bushes between the Portico building and St. Luke’s hospital demonstrates clear advance planning. The suspect knew exactly where to retrieve the accelerant after stealing the emergency vehicle. This level of preparation distinguishes the incident from impulsive criminal acts and suggests targeted motivation against the federal presence in the building. Canyon County Paramedics Chief Michael Stowell confirmed full cooperation with investigators while emphasizing that no patients or medical personnel were harmed during the theft.
Empty Building Prevents Tragedy
The timing of the attack—late Wednesday night into Thursday morning—proved crucial in preventing loss of life. The DHS offices were unoccupied, and the medical complex had minimal overnight staff. Had the building been populated during business hours, the combination of vehicular impact and potential fire could have resulted in significant casualties. The suspect’s decision to pour accelerant around the stolen ambulance indicates intent to cause maximum destruction, yet investigators remain uncertain whether the perpetrator was unable to ignite the gasoline or fled when startled by responding officers.
Multi-Agency Response Mobilizes Resources
The attack triggered an immediate multi-jurisdictional response involving the Meridian Police Department as lead investigators, with support from the FBI, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Boise Police, Meridian Fire Department, and Idaho State Police. The FBI’s involvement reflects federal interest due to the targeting of DHS facilities. The breadth of agency participation underscores the seriousness with which authorities treat this incident. St. Luke’s Health System confirmed no disruptions to medical services despite the theft occurring on hospital property, demonstrating institutional resilience in crisis situations.
Suspect Remains Elusive Despite Description
Investigators released a partial description of the suspect: wearing a black shirt, tan pants, and a medical-style mask that may have been used to conceal identity or blend in with healthcare surroundings. Despite this information and active tip lines, no arrests have been made. The suspect’s ability to evade capture raises questions about planning and escape routes. Authorities maintain that no ongoing public threat exists, though residents in Meridian—a rapidly growing Boise suburb—have expressed understandable concerns about safety. The investigation continues with tips directed to 208-895-3362 or [email protected].
Broader Implications for Security
This incident exposes vulnerabilities in how emergency vehicles are secured at medical facilities and how federal offices in leased commercial spaces are protected. The ease with which the suspect accessed and stole a fully functional ambulance suggests potential gaps in vehicle security protocols at hospitals nationwide. For DHS and other federal agencies operating in shared buildings, the attack demonstrates that soft targets remain attractive to individuals with anti-government motivations. The lack of casualties should not diminish the gravity of what could have been a devastating terrorist act on American soil.
Sources:
Stolen ambulance rams DHS office building in Meridian; suspect still at large
Stolen ambulance rams DHS office building in Meridian; suspect still at large
Stolen ambulance rams DHS office building in Meridian; suspect still at large
Stolen ambulance rams DHS office building in Meridian; suspect still at large
Stolen ambulance rams DHS office building in Meridian; suspect still at large
