San Francisco Police Arrest Ambulance Carjacking Suspect 22-175
Suspect vandalized, carjacked, and then attempted to run over SFFD medics
On August 29, 2022, at approximately 6:55 a.m., San Francisco Police Officers assigned to Mission Station responded to the area of 1700 Harrison Street on a report of an unknown male breaking into a San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD) ambulance.
Upon arrival, officers met with the two SFFD paramedics who stated that the male suspect used a wooden object to smash the windows of the ambulance while they were sitting inside of it. After both victims exited the ambulance for safety, the suspect was able to gain access to the ambulance, and then attempted to run the paramedics over. The suspect then abandoned the ambulance and fled on foot.
The SFPD General Work unit took over the investigation. SFPD CSI officers gathered forensic evidence on scene and analyzed it. With SFPD CSI’s assistance, investigators developed information that identified 33-year-old Francisco Vargas-Osario as the suspect. Investigators developed probable cause to obtain an arrest warrant for Vargas-Osario and disseminated the information through a department-wide email.
On December 8, 2022, an off-duty San Francisco Police officer observed Vargas-Osario in the area of 7th and Minna Streets. The officer advised dispatch and asked for officers in the area to respond to his location. San Francisco Police officers from Southern Station responded and placed Vargas-Osario into custody without incident.
Vargas-Osario was transported to San Francisco County Jail and booked for two counts of Attempted Homicide (664/187(a) PC), two counts of Assault with a Deadly Weapon (245(a)(1) PC), Carjacking (215(a) PC), Vandalism (594(b)(1) PC), Possession of Stolen Vehicle (496d(a) PC), Vehicle theft (10851(a) CVC), and an outstanding warrant for Aggravated Assault (245(a)(4) PC) and Assault with a Deadly Weapon (245(a)(1) PC).
While an arrest has been made, this remains an open and active investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the SFPD Tip Line at 1-415-575-4444 or Text a Tip to TIP411 and begin the text message with SFPD. You may remain anonymous.
SFPD Case #220583127