A Seattle Fire Department crew was inside the Ballard Fred Meyer when a security guard rushed to warn them about people rummaging through their fire truck in the parking lot.
This robbery is a disappointing occurrence that has been repeated three times in recent months," an assistant chief wrote in an email about the thefts. "We are exploring options in going forward. Most important, no one was hurt, and we will pursue options in keeping our equipment secure. The facility has extensive security measures, including fencing, cameras and gates, but that hasn't deterred thieves who have eyes on the fire department's equipment. Multiple times this year, facility crews have found the exterior fence was cut through to make entry into the training center.In May, crews were repairing a vehicle gate when a man drove onto the property and stole saws that were 15 feet away from a fire crew that was training and then sped out of the property.
Miller said most thefts from firefighters are crimes of opportunity when fire crews have their attention on an emergency or when a fire station is empty while crews are on a call.