Amistad bus stolen from El Paso mall with elderly woman onboard
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- El Paso Police are blocking off part of the parking lot of the DK convenience store on the corner of North Mesa Street and Brentwood Avenue.
ABC-7 crews on the scene observe an Amistad bus, commonly used to transport people in need, in the middle of the blocked off area, surrounded by police officers.
El Paso Police say a man stole the bus from Sunland Park Mall. They say there was an elderly woman onboard. She is being medically evaluated.
The video shows police struggling to detain a man. Police officials confirm one person is in custody connected to the incident.
El Paso Fire Department officials confirm with ABC-7 that one person was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
Amistad issued to following statement:
"On the afternoon of July 13, 2023, during a scheduled route, Amistad was notified that one of their vehicles was driving erratically on the west side of El Paso. It was confirmed that the vehicle was taken over by an unknown individual. After a swift response from the El Paso Police Department and other law enforcement agencies, the individual was apprehended and taken into custody.
Kristina Peña, Community Relations Manager
Amistad is a known advocate for the elderly and persons with disabilities within the El Paso community and will continue to operate in the best interests of their clients."
“We are truly saddened by this unfortunate incident and want to offer our sincere and deepest apologies to those involved.” said Andrea Ramirez, Chief Executive Officer of Amistad. “The safety of our clients, team members, and constituents is our main priority at all times. We are working closely with authorities to ensure that all parties involved are safe.”
ABC-7 is working to learn more details.
