Marine accused of taking ambulance for drunken joyride, crashing it into police cruiser in Utica

Martin Laravillela charged with drunken driving, theft of automobile

UTICA, Mich. – A U.S. Marine was charged after he was accused of stealing an ambulance and crashing it into police cruiser in Utica.

Martin Laravillela, 21, was charged with drunken driving and theft of an automobile.

Police said the incident happened March 30. Laravillela was out celebrating his birthday at Dave and Busters on Park Avenue.

Paramedics were called to the arcade to help a patron.

Laravillela checked several vehicles in the parking lot before opening the door to the ambulance and driving off, officials said.

The ambulance crashed into a police cruiser. Authorities say there were about $5,000 worth of repairs necessary.

Laravillela is stationed in South Carolina and is currently training at Selfridge Air Force Base.


About the Authors:

Nick joined the Local 4 team in February of 2015. Prior to that he spent 6 years in Sacramento covering a long list of big stories including wildfires and earthquakes. Raised in Sterling Heights, he is no stranger to the deep history and pride Detroit has to offer.

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.