MPD: driver arrested for OWI after backing into ambulance

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - The driver who damaged an ambulance in a minor crash Thursday morning was arrested for OWI, Madison police reported.

The Madison Police Department says a bystander called police because the 58-year-old driver was crossing over the grassy median while merging onto I-90 from E Washington Ave., damaging his car.

The driver hit the ambulance after reversing and hitting the emergency vehicle while they were both pulled over on the interstate, Madison Fire Department reported.

MFD explained the ambulance pulled up behind the vehicle stopped on I-90 eastbound around 5:15 a.m., noting it had its emergency lights on. Crews were responding to a crash on the interstate and reported seeing debris near the on ramp of the highway from East Washington Avenue, not far from where the sedan was stopped.

Paramedics tried to talk to the driver, who officials said was unresponsive despite firefighters’ attempts at opening the driver’s door. MPD says the driver was unconscious.

MFD said the driver eventually responded to knocks on the window. Officials reported that the driver then hit the gas, even though the sedan was in park.

As paramedics continued asking the driver to stop moving the vehicle, MFD said the driver pulled the car forward, put it in reverse and sped backwards. The driver struck the ambulance, then pulled forward and over.

Police say drug paraphernalia was found in the car.

Law enforcement took the driver into custody. MPD says the man was arrested for his 2nd OWI.

A Madison Fire engine crew put the vehicle in park and turned the vehicle off. EMS also evaluated the driver for any injuries, and none were reported.

The ambulance was damaged on its front bumper and air horn, MFD said.

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