Two charged after allegedly swerving towards, attempting to drag-race ambulance

Queensland Police have charged two people who allegedly drove towards – and attempted to drag-race – an on-duty ambulance.

Police allege the stolen Toyota Kluger was seen driving dangerously on Brisbane's Gateway Motorway at 6:30pm on 27 February 2024, before being seen about 45 minutes later driving recklessly towards an ambulance in Capalaba, in Brisbane's east.

Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) say paramedics were called to a home in response to a patient who had reportedly collapsed and was unconscious.

QAS said while the paramedics were responding to the incident they “observed a vehicle they believe was allegedly driving dangerously,” with the driver of the reportedly stolen Toyota SUV claiming to have been attempting to race the ambulance, which had its sirens and lights on.

Authorities say paramedics attempted to overtake the car, but the motorist behind the wheel allegedly “repeatedly veered [and] swerved” towards the ambulance – with the emergency service workers forced to drive to a nearby police station for assistance.

A second ambulance was deployed a few minutes later to help bring the patient to a hospital.

QAS Assistant Commissioner Tony Armstrong said in a media statement there was "no negative detriment to the patient" as a result of the delay.

Mr Armstrong claimed the paramedics on duty allegedly saw a laser pointer and a “firearm” pointed at them during the incident, with the affected workers left "visibly shaken".

"This alleged act of aggression towards our staff simply can't be tolerated and is disgusting," he said.

"Not only has it placed our staff's safety at risk but also the safety of the community in general."

Queensland Police have charged a 34-year-old man with multiple offences, including dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, unlicensed driving, obstruction of police, unlawful use of a car, use of false plates and injuring a police dog.

Police say the alleged offender was refused bail before facing Magistrates' Court.

Additionally, authorities have charged a 29-year-old woman with unlawful use of a motor vehicle, where she is due to appear in Magistrates' Court on 27 March 2024.