Man Arrested After Allegedly Ramming Ambulance Carrying Patient in Ruskin, Causing Major Crash

A Hillsborough County man is facing multiple felony charges after investigators say he intentionally rammed an ambulance transporting a patient, forcing it off the roadway and into utility equipment in Ruskin.

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the violent incident endangered paramedics, a patient receiving emergency medical care, and other motorists. Authorities allege the suspect pursued the ambulance after interfering with first responders at a medical scene before intentionally causing the crash.

What Happened?

The incident began shortly before 11:00 p.m. on June 25, 2026, when Hillsborough County Fire Rescue responded to a medical emergency at a home in Ruskin.

According to investigators:

• Paramedics were treating a female patient inside the home.
• A man at the residence, identified as 35-year-old Johnny Arman, allegedly became hostile toward first responders.
• Despite being instructed to stay back, Arman reportedly attempted multiple times to force his way into the ambulance while paramedics prepared to transport the patient.

After the ambulance left for the hospital, investigators say Arman got into his own vehicle and began following it.

Ambulance Forced Off the Road

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the confrontation escalated on Upper Creek Drive near Galen Court.

Investigators allege Arman:

• Used his vehicle to block the ambulance’s path.
• Accelerated directly toward the ambulance.
• Struck the emergency vehicle, forcing it off the roadway.

The ambulance crashed into several utility boxes and a utility pole.

At the time of the collision, the ambulance was carrying:

• The female patient.
• Two Hillsborough County Fire Rescue paramedics.

Fortunately, authorities have not reported any fatalities resulting from the crash.

Officials have not disclosed the relationship between Arman and the patient.

Extensive Property Damage

The crash caused substantial damage to nearby utility infrastructure.

According to investigators, the collision resulted in more than $100,000 in property damage, requiring utility crews from TECO and Spectrum to respond and repair damaged equipment.

Criminal Charges Filed

Following the investigation, Arman was arrested and charged with multiple felony offenses, including:

• Two counts of aggravated battery on a firefighter with a deadly weapon.
• Aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
• Two counts of unlawfully impeding, threatening, or harassing a first responder.
• Burglary of an authorized emergency vehicle.
• Criminal mischief involving more than $1,000 in damages.

These are allegations, and Arman is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Florida Laws Protect Emergency Responders

Florida law provides enhanced criminal penalties for individuals who interfere with emergency responders performing their official duties.

Depending on the circumstances, statutes that may apply include:

• Florida Statute §784.07, which increases penalties for assaults and batteries committed against firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and other first responders while performing official duties.
• Florida Statute §316.1935 and related criminal statutes, where applicable, concerning fleeing or conduct that endangers public safety.
• Additional criminal statutes governing burglary, criminal mischief, and interference with emergency personnel.

The specific charges and potential penalties will ultimately be determined through the criminal court process.

Potential Civil Liability

In addition to the pending criminal charges, this incident could also result in civil claims if investigators determine that the alleged actions caused injuries or property damage.

Potential claims may involve:

• Medical expenses for injured individuals.
• Damage to the ambulance.
• Utility infrastructure repair costs.
• Property damage.
• Lost wages.
• Pain and suffering.

If emergency responders or the patient suffered injuries, they may have the right to pursue compensation through separate civil proceedings.

Sheriff’s Office Condemns Attack

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister described the alleged attack as an intentional act that endangered lives.

According to the sheriff, emergency responders should never have to fear being attacked while providing medical care, and those who deliberately interfere with lifesaving services will be held accountable under the law.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident.

Authorities are expected to determine whether additional evidence or charges emerge as the case proceeds through the criminal justice system.

Protecting Those Who Protect Us

Paramedics, firefighters, and other emergency responders routinely place themselves in dangerous situations to provide lifesaving care. Allegations of intentionally targeting an ambulance carrying a patient represent an extraordinary and deeply concerning incident that could have resulted in even greater tragedy.

Our thoughts are with the patient and the first responders involved, and we hope all those affected by this frightening incident make a full recovery.