Thieves steal fire investigation tools

The Lebanon Fire District discovered a break-in at Station 33 in Fairview on Monday, May 29. Thieves cut through a newly installed security fence on the back of the property before cutting locks on the Lebanon Fire Investigation Team (LFIT) trailer.

Once they made access to the trailer, the thieves stole several thousand dollars worth of investigation tools, lights and cameras, and damaged the trailer when making entry.

“Thefts such as these are extremely frustrating,” Fire Marshal Ken Foster said. “They affect our ability to serve our community to the high standard that is expected. We investigate the causes of fires to assist residents in insurance claims, assist law enforcement if arson is suspected, and to identify possible safety concerns. Having to replace all our investigation equipment may delay any pending or future fire investigations and has a direct effect on our community.”

Anyone with information related to these thefts is encouraged to contact the Linn County Sheriff’s Office at (541) 967- 3950 and reference case number 23-02101.