Closed Fire Station in Detroit Hit by Thieves

Thieves broke into a closed fire station in Detroit, Mich., and stole equipment including radios, tools off a fire truck and electronics, officials said.

Firefighters got word of the thefts Monday. No one was at the fire station at the time of the thefts because it is one that’s closed at most times because of budget cuts, WJBK-TV reported.

“We feel violated because it’s our home,” said Ladder 19 Battalion Chief Robert Zygmontowicz.

Other items taken during the break-in included a microwave and food, but the missing gear was troublesome for Zygmontowicz.

“Our job is to protect the citizens’ property and lives, and when we’re missing equipment it makes our job a lot harder,” he said.

Detroit Fire Department Commissioner said in statement that the break-in is a “crime committed against the neighborhood and the people who depend on these first responders.” He said stepped-up safety precautions are planned at fire stations.

The department, he said, will be “interacting more closely with police officers who patrol fire stations within their precinct’s area of responsibility.”