Two Teens Steal Forklift, Do Donuts in Woodland Park — Juveniles Booked After Midnight Joyride

Late-night mischief in Woodland, California, turned into a costly vandalism investigation when two teenage girls stole a forklift shortly after midnight and drove it around town — even doing donuts inside Ferns Park.

What Happened

The Woodland Police Department says dispatchers began receiving calls just after midnight reporting a forklift being driven by two females. Unusually, tips came from opposite ends of the city, despite forklifts generally topping out at about 15–20 miles per hour.

Officers searched the area but initially could not locate the vehicle. Later in the same shift, a report came in that the forklift was performing donuts in Ferns Park. Police found the machine exiting the park and confronted its operators. The teens abandoned the forklift and fled on foot but were quickly detained and identified as juveniles from Woodland.

Damage And Charges

Investigators say the forklift caused significant damage at the park: it broke up a curb, flipped over a large concrete picnic table and tore up a section of grass. Authorities also determined the forklift had been stolen before the joyride began.

Both juveniles were booked into Yolo County Juvenile Hall on charges of theft and vandalism. In a Facebook post, the Woodland Police Department quipped that the teens were 'operating a forklift without proper certification,' then clarified that the remark was meant as a joke.

Outcome And Context

Police emphasized they were relieved no one was injured. The department and investigators continue to assess the damage and review how the forklift was able to be taken from its original location. The incident underscores how juvenile pranks can escalate into dangerous and costly crimes when heavy equipment is involved.

Note: Juvenile names were not released because of their age; the investigation is ongoing.