WASILLA -- When Central Mat-Su Fire Chief James Steele realized someone had broken into a Wasilla fire station and stolen emergency equipment worth more than $40,000, he was sick to his stomach.
"They had no regard for the community," Steele said about the Oct. 28 break-in of Station 52 at Bogard and Engstrom roads. "They really put firefighters and the community at risk for a period of time."
Among the missing items were back-up lifesaving bags containing extra air packs and air bottles in case fire crews become trapped at a scene, a heart defibrillator and special HAZMAT monitors.
The perpetrators also took some of the responders' gear bags holding their thick, fire-proof coats and pants worth $2,000 each, Steele said.
In addition, they grabbed a 42-inch LCD Samsung TV and miscellaneous tools and other fire equipment after smashing and crawling through a second-story window in the rear of the building.
Fortunately, the thieves had enough of a conscience to drop off some of the most crucial items at a residence in the Cottonwood subdivision of Wasilla, Steele said.
"The property owner found the stuff and called the troopers and reported finding some strange items," he said. "All I can think of is that it was a crime of opportunity because they saw their target and took decisive means to come in, maybe thinking they could sell some of the equipment. I can't imagine anyone having a use for most of that stuff."
Still missing are the TV, a Pelican case for a computer and assorted fire equipment, according to Alaska State Troopers.
Troopers have tagged the incident their Crime of the Week this week, hoping someone comes forward with information. Authorities believe the crime took place between 11:45 p.m. on Oct. 27 and 12:15 p.m. Oct. 28.
Anyone with information can call 745-3333 or submit at tip at www.matsu-crimestoppers.org.
You could earn up to $1,000 if the information leads to arrests or indictments. Callers do not have to give their names.
Contact K.T. McKee at 352-6711.
By K.T. McKEE
kmckee@adn.com