A Dramatic Start to the Weekend
An ambulance was stolen from Corpus Christi Medical Center’s Bay Area Hospital on Friday, just before 4 p.m. Corpus Christi witnessed an extraordinary event that sounded more like a scene from an action movie than daily life. This led to a high-speed chase involving multiple law enforcement agencies around the city.
The Ambulance Chase Through the City
The Texas Department of Public Safety reported that the pursuit began when they spotted the stolen ambulance in the Flour Bluff area. The chase continued along State Highway 358 and onto Highway 286, culminating at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Shoreline. The vehicle reached alarming speeds of up to 85 miles per hour, creating a tense situation for the authorities and the public.
Culmination at the Hospital
Witnesses reported seeing a man sprinting through the downtown hospital as the chase ended, attempting to evade capture. This individual, Brandon Felkins, a 35-year-old resident of Ingleside, was subsequently apprehended by the police. He is now facing several charges, including evading arrest with a vehicle, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and theft of over $300,000. Adding to his legal troubles are two misdemeanor warrants from Aransas County.
Advanced Ambulance Tracking Aids Law Enforcement
The Corpus Christi Police Department highlighted the role of technology in managing the situation. The stolen ambulance had GPS tracking installed, which enabled the officers to maintain close pursuit without losing track of the vehicle despite its high speed.
Eyewitness Account from the Hospital
Gabrielle Mora, who was at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Shoreline for an X-ray, described the scene as intense. “The suspect burst through the emergency room doors, chased by the CCPD and State Troopers. They tackled him; he tried to resist but was quickly subdued,” she recounted. The rapid response by the police was dramatic, with numerous law enforcement vehicles converging on the hospital, sirens blaring, and lights flashing.
Quick and Effective Response Praised
Mora praised the Corpus Christi Police Department’s quick action. “The scene was controlled quickly despite the initial chaos,” she added. Her experience highlights the effectiveness of the police response and the importance of security measures in critical situations.
Reflections on Public Safety
This incident raises important questions about public safety and law enforcement’s challenges in urban settings. The ability to quickly mobilize and coordinate among various agencies was crucial in preventing further escalation.
A Reminder of the Unexpected
Friday’s events in Corpus Christi are a stark reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise. Local law enforcement’s professionalism and prompt action prevented what could have been a much more severe incident, ensuring the safety of the public and medical patients alike.