The Chattanooga Fire Department is encouraging residents to stay alert and aware amid several recent break-ins involving Chattanooga firefighters’ personal vehicles at area stations, according to a fire department news release.
Windows were smashed and personal items were stolen during the crimes, which happened at eight different stations in the city.
The Chattanooga Fire Department called the most recent break-in that occurred this week “an added burden on an already stressful shift” as firefighters were extinguishing a house fire in Highland Park. The culprits appear to be waiting for crews to leave on calls before burglarizing their cars and trucks, the release states.
The Chattanooga Police Department is currently investigating the crimes. Anyone who sees something suspicious happening at a local fire station is encouraged to call 911. Anyone with information on the recent incidents can call the police at 423-698-2525. People can also submit an anonymous tip on the Chattanooga Police Department mobile app.
Locations of CFD vehicle break-ins
— Fire Station 1 (downtown on Main Street)— Station 9 (East Lake)— Station 5 (Highland Park)— Station 19 (Hixson)— Station 4 (off Dodson Avenue)— Station 6 (Bonny Oaks)— Station 7 (Discovery Drive off Hickory Valley Road)— Station 13 (Brainerd)Source: Chattanooga Fire Department
– Compiled by Kim Sebring