A chilling act unfolded in Idaho as a woman allegedly stole an ambulance and deliberately crashed it into a building housing Department of Homeland Security offices, attempting to ignite a devastating fire. The incident, occurring late on February 18th, sent shockwaves through the community and triggered a massive investigation.
Sarah Elizabeth George, 43, of Boise, is now facing serious federal charges after authorities say she commandeered a Canyon County Paramedics ambulance while a crew was actively transporting a patient. The stolen vehicle was then driven with reckless abandon, smashing through the entrance of the Portico North building in Meridian.
Inside the building, George allegedly doused the lobby with gasoline, creating a volatile and dangerous situation. She then fled the scene on foot, leaving behind a trail of evidence that would ultimately lead to her capture. The intent, according to authorities, was clear: to set the building ablaze.
The investigation, described by Meridian Police Chief Tracy Basterrechea as a testament to “good old-fashioned police work,” spanned five days. Detectives meticulously reviewed surveillance footage from local businesses and painstakingly tracked vehicle records to identify the suspect.
Adding a disturbing layer to the case, investigators uncovered a social media post allegedly made by George earlier that day. The post featured an AI-generated image of the White House engulfed in flames, accompanied by a cryptic message about destruction and truth.
Evidence suggests George meticulously planned the attack. Surveillance footage revealed a dark pickup truck parking near the hospital approximately 22 minutes before the ambulance was stolen. A person matching her description was seen approaching the hospital shortly before the theft occurred.
Minutes after stealing the ambulance, George was captured on camera parking the vehicle and loading two gasoline cans and a plastic bag into it. She then drove directly to the Portico North building, accelerating through the south entrance and unleashing the gasoline within.
The Portico North building is leased by the U.S. General Services Administration and houses offices for the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, making the incident a direct threat to federal operations.
Investigators traced George’s purchases to a Walmart in Meridian, where she bought two red gasoline cans and lighter fluid at a self-checkout register. Later, video from a Fred Meyer gas station showed her filling the cans with gasoline, using a loyalty card registered in her name.
A blue Dodge Dakota pickup truck is also central to the investigation. Authorities believe George used the truck to arrive at and flee the scene, linking it to a vehicle registered to members of her family through matching paint wear and body features.
Police dashcam footage captured a figure matching George’s description crossing a busy street shortly after the crash. Surveillance cameras then showed that individual entering a pickup truck and driving away.
The investigation involved a collaborative effort between the Meridian Police Department, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. A search warrant was executed at George’s residence on Monday evening, leading to her arrest.
Facing federal charges of malicious destruction of government property by fire and destruction of property affecting interstate commerce, George could face between five and 20 years in prison for each count. Authorities emphasize that the investigation is ongoing, and further charges may be filed.
Police Chief Basterrechea stated unequivocally, “This conduct is unacceptable. It will be investigated, and it will be charged to the fullest extent of the law.” The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for targeted attacks and the dedication required to protect critical infrastructure.
