the hostage negotiations

CASE FILE #023

CASE FILE: THE HOSTAGE NEGOTIATION

Mission Log

What began as a routine fuel stop quickly escalated into a hostage situation.

The victim: one pickup truck.

The demand: $6.40 a gallon.

Negotiators were dispatched immediately. Unfortunately, the suspect was a diesel pump and refused to answer questions.

The Discovery

Investigators arrived to find the truck completely immobilized beside Pump 6.

No ransom note was necessary.

The terms were posted in six-inch numbers directly above the suspect.

$6.40.

Per gallon.

The Investigation

Attempts to negotiate a lower price were unsuccessful.

The pump showed no emotion, offered no explanation, and continued increasing its demands every few seconds.

$87.

$121.

$130.

At this point, investigators determined the situation had become financially unstable.

Feathered Thought

Experts recommend remaining calm during a hostage negotiation.

Experts apparently drive electric cars.

Final Note

After exhausting every available option, the family agreed to the terms.

The truck was released unharmed.

The wallet was not.

Report filed.