A Florida man was arrested after allegedly carjacking an EMS vehicle, taking it on a joyride, and then fleeing the scene after crashing it. The incident occurred on the southbound Interstate 75 exit ramp to westbound Interstate 4 when an EMS supervisor came upon a crash involving a stolen pickup truck. The man, identified as Gregory Brian McGall, jumped into the EMS vehicle and drove off, leading law enforcement on a chase. After sideswiping a Nissan Altima, he crashed the EMS vehicle and fled on foot, leaving it abandoned.
Days later, McGall was spotted in a Nissan Altima being driven by Jerry Skidmore, who had active arrest warrants. Deputies stopped the car at a gas station, where both men attempted to flee. McGall is facing charges including grand theft of a motor vehicle, burglary, carjacking, criminal mischief, and aggravated assault. Skidmore is charged with aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, fleeing and eluding police, and driving with a canceled license. American Medical Response (AMR) emphasized their commitment to the safety of patients and teams, thanking law enforcement for their efforts in the case.
The carjacking incident and subsequent arrest highlight the dangers faced by EMS personnel in the line of duty. The supervisor who initially came upon the crash on the interstate ramp was fortunate to have escaped unharmed, but the events serve as a reminder of the risks associated with providing emergency medical services. The reckless actions of the suspects not only endangered themselves but also put others on the road at risk, including law enforcement officers involved in apprehending them.
The swift response by law enforcement in tracking down the suspects demonstrates the commitment to public safety and accountability in Florida. The use of technology, such as camera systems inside the EMS vehicle, played a crucial role in locating the abandoned vehicle and identifying the suspects. The collaboration between local agencies, including the Florida Highway Patrol and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, was instrumental in apprehending McGall and Skidmore, ensuring that they face consequences for their actions.
In the heightened law enforcement presence during spring break, the crackdown on criminal activity, including carjacking and reckless driving, is a priority to maintain public safety. The charges brought against the suspects, including aggravated assault and fleeing from police, reflect the seriousness of their offenses and the potential harm they posed to others. The efforts of authorities to uphold the law and hold individuals accountable for their actions send a strong message about the consequences of engaging in criminal behavior.
American Medical Response reaffirmed their commitment to prioritizing the safety of their patients and teams, acknowledging the support of law enforcement agencies in addressing the carjacking incident. The cooperation between private companies like AMR and public agencies is essential in maintaining security and ensuring a swift response to emergencies. By working together, these entities can help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future and promote a safer environment for all residents and visitors in Florida.
