GARDNER — A Spencer man was taken into custody Wednesday evening after he allegedly stole an ambulance from Heywood Hospital and led police on a pursuit through the city, authorities said.
Harrison Barjolo, 21, reportedly commandeered the ambulance around 5:40 p.m. and refused to stop when Gardner Police attempted to pull him over.
The chase that unfolded saw Barjolo striking another vehicle, prompting an officer to break away to assist those impacted.
Despite the collision, Barjolo continued to evade law enforcement, with additional agencies joining in the pursuit.
He ultimately returned to the hospital, where he crashed the ambulance into pylons outside the ambulance bay before fleeing on foot back into the emergency department.
Officers were able to apprehend Barjolo shortly thereafter.
He is currently in police custody and poses no threat to the public.
Barjolo faces numerous charges, including unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, failure to stop for police, operating to endanger, and leaving the scene of property damage and personal injury accidents.
He is also charged with assault and battery on an elder, assault and battery on ambulance personnel, and simple assault and battery, along with other motor vehicle violations.
Sgt. Jeffrey LaBonte stated that the investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be forthcoming.
