Fire department ransacked, burglarized

GLENCOE, N.M. (KRQE) - Firefighters in a southeast New Mexico community who volunteer to protect citizens were targeted by thieves and found their station ransacked.

Thousands of dollars worth of firefighting equipment was stolen.

All of the doors were open to the three fire trucks at the Glencoe Volunteer Fire Department just east of Ruidoso. It was during a routine check at the station Wednesday night that officials found the place picked apart.

"It was obvious that stuff was missing, and then it was just a matter of what," said Michele Caskey, spokesperson for Lincoln County.

Someone had stolen more than $10,000 worth of firefighting equipment, and it appears they were selective.
    
They went after tools, medical gear, an industrial-sized fan, expensive bolt cutters and a $2,500 rescue saw.

"The K-12 rescue saw is designed to cut through the roofs in houses," explained Caskey.  "It's bigger than a chain saw."

One of the bigger items, and probably the hardest to steal, was a 5,000-watt Honda generator that weighs more than 200 pounds and was attached to the top of a fire truck.

The thieves had to cut through wiring to get the generator out and then lift it out of the truck.  

"Damage was not really done to the fire engine, which might suggest that it was more than one person, but at this point we don't really know," said Caskey.

Whoever it was, officials said they did it within the last 10 days. Investigators are worried other volunteer fire stations could be targeted next because they're often unoccupied.

Authorities will keep a close watch on fire departments in the area.

"The theft of this equipment is a blow to the community of Glencoe," said Caskey. "That anybody would have the nerve to target volunteer firefighters who do so much to protect everybody here in this community is shocking to us."

If there is a fire, Caskey said there are enough departments nearby that no one is in danger. Insurance will cover the cost of all the stolen gear, but it could take a few weeks to replace.

At least one fire truck will be out of service for repairs.

There are 12 volunteer fire stations in Lincoln County. Authorities want the community to be aware of suspicious activity, in case someone is trying to sell or use the equipment.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to call the Lincoln County Sheriff's Department.