Authorities in Boulder are investigating a dramatic incident after a suspect allegedly stole a fire engine just minutes after being released from jail, leading to a multi-agency pursuit across the region.
According to the Boulder Police Department, the suspect, identified as Richmond Takashi Johnson, was initially detained on a trespassing charge around midnight on April 28. He was booked and released just after 3:30 a.m. in accordance with Colorado law.
Shortly after his release, Boulder Fire-Rescue responded to the jail for an unrelated medical call. During the response, police say Johnson took advantage of the situation, entered a fire engine, and drove away in the vehicle.
The stolen fire engine caused significant damage during the incident, reportedly striking and damaging three Boulder County Sheriff’s Office vehicles as it was driven away.
A pursuit followed, involving sheriff’s deputies and assistance from the Longmont Police Department. Officers deployed tire-deflation devices as the vehicle traveled northbound on Highway 287. The chase ultimately ended in downtown Longmont, where Johnson lost control of the fire engine and fled on foot before being apprehended.
One deputy sustained minor injuries during the pursuit.
Johnson now faces multiple charges, including felony motor vehicle theft, felony criminal mischief, reckless driving, and reckless endangerment.
Investigations into the full circumstances of the incident are ongoing.
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