Federal Investigators Search for Suspects in Fire Equipment Heist
U.S. Forest Service officials are searching for two male suspects who allegedly stole fire equipment from a strike team responding to a windstorm event in Rancho Cucamonga, California. The incident occurred around 3 a.m. on January 17 when two suspects pulled up next to a Forest Service engine and “forcibly opened” three locked compartments, removing essential fire equipment.
The suspects were seen fleeing the scene in a red two-door Jeep Wrangler with a black soft top, tan seats, and a partially visible California license plate starting with the number “6.” Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and have released detailed descriptions of the suspects.
The first suspect is described as a man between 5-foot-7 and 6-feet tall with a “large build and a thin mustache.” He was last seen wearing a black knit hat, a red jacket with yellow trim, and blue pants. The second suspect is described as a man between 5-foot-7 and 5-foot-10 with a “husky build” and was last seen wearing a blue baseball cap with an unknown white logo, a blue long-sleeved shirt, and baggy jeans.
The theft comes as Southern California continues to battle devastating fires and intense winds. Authorities are searching for anyone who may have information about the incident and are urging the public to remain vigilant.
