The Alameda County Fire Department in Pleasanton, California, was targeted by vandals last Wednesday morning, resulting in stolen equipment and bags. The incident occurred during the recent atmospheric river that swept through the Bay Area, hampering critical work in the community. Crews, who had been staying at a local hotel, discovered that their trucks had been broken into and locks had been tampered with.
Eric Truax, a member of the Alameda County Fire Department, expressed his frustration, stating that chainsaws and personal bags were among the stolen items. Crew 8, a newly formed unit specifically designed to handle emergencies such as fallen trees, had their gear specifically tailored to their needs. Truax described the incident as demoralizing, particularly for the team, who had invested time and effort into acquiring and maintaining their equipment.
While the department managed to secure some donations to recover from the theft, Truax emphasized the sentimental value of certain items, such as his bag, which he had possessed for 16 years. He expressed a desire for the thieves to return the stolen items, especially as the department prepares for the next round of storms.
