Florida Man Attempts to Steal Medical Helicopter at I-75 Crash Scene

A Florida man faces charges after he allegedly tried to steal a medical helicopter that had landed near Interstate 75 to transport patients injured in a crash, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Troopers identified the suspect, who reportedly told investigators he had seen the Anti-Christ moments before the crash occurred. The incident unfolded after a multi-vehicle wreck shut down portions of the interstate.

What Investigators Say Happened

According to the Florida Highway Patrol report, the medical helicopter had landed near the crash site and was waiting to airlift injured patients to a nearby hospital. While the flight crew prepared for transport, the suspect allegedly approached the aircraft, and attempted to take control of it. Troopers and medical staff intervened before the suspect could take control. 

Investigators reported that made unusual statements during his arrest, including a claim that he had seen the Anti-Christ shortly before the crash on I-75.

The Crash That Preceded the Incident

The FHP responded to a crash on Interstate 75 that required emergency medical air transport. Details about the number of vehicles involved and the severity of injuries to those inside have not been fully released, though officials confirmed the situation was serious enough to warrant the deployment of a medical helicopter.

Traffic on the interstate was disrupted while first responders worked to clear the scene and treat the injured. The arrival of the medical helicopter is standard procedure for crashes involving life-threatening injuries in rural stretches of the highway, where ground transport to a trauma center can take considerably longer.

Charges and Custody

The suspect, Riley Ferrer, faces several charges in connection with the attempted theft, including grand theft of an aircraft, according to the FHP. Additional charges may follow as the investigation continues. He was booked into a local jail following his arrest.

Safety at Emergency Scenes

The incident highlights the unusual challenges first responders sometimes face at active emergency scenes. Medical helicopters operate under tight protocols, and any interference with an aircraft can endanger both flight crews and patients waiting for transport. Aviation authorities treat tampering with aircraft as a serious offense, with penalties that can include lengthy prison sentences.

Flight crews and law enforcement officers typically secure landing zones during emergency operations, though the open nature of highway crash sites can make full perimeter control difficult.

What Happens Next

The Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate both the original crash and the attempted helicopter theft. Officials have not released the names of the patients who were waiting for transport or provided an update on their conditions.

Prosecutors will determine whether additional federal charges apply, given that the alleged crime involved an aircraft.