The RM of Piney Fire Chief says his department is still reeling after numerous pieces of equipment were stolen from the hall in Woodridge on Wednesday.

“I really don’t have the words to express how disappointed I am that equipment from a first responder would be taken.” Bill Stowe says stealing, in general, is wrong, but stealing from firefighters can have especially negative consequences. “To remove equipment, whether it is large or small, it could be that one item critical in a specific situation. Everyone hurts from something like this.”

Stowe notes stealing from a fire department is not as easy as just walking in and out of a building. Whoever committed the crime, he says, forced their way in and caused no small amount of damage in and around the facility. While he prefers not to share the details of exactly what was stolen, Stowe says most of the items have a very specific use, uncommon to everyday life.

“I’m not sure why someone would do this,” he comments. “I can’t see this as an act of random defiance, there must have been a reason, but I have no idea what it would be.”

Piney Chief Administrative Officer Martin Van Osch is similarly disturbed by recent events. He describes the devices taken as quick grab-and-go items that could be easily sold on the black market for quick turnaround cash.

“This is a theft that could impact life safety, without a doubt, should our fire department encounter an incident, they would not have the vital tools they need to complete the job,” he remarks. “This really puts everybody at risk and that speaks to the nature of the individuals who could commit such a crime.”

Though he remains startled and perturbed by the theft, the CAO stresses that this sort of criminal activity is not characteristic of his municipality. He says Piney is defined by friendly neighbours, and genuinely good people and in his mind this isolated event does little to sour that reputation.

“We are a safe community, we are a dedicated community, and I am sure it will come to light who perpetrated this theft.”

Van Osch says the fire department consists of volunteers, dedicated to serving the region and is saddened that they must now go through this extra stress. Meanwhile, Stowe says his troops remain just as ready to serve as ever before.

“On behalf of the firefighters, I know we are going to do everything here to continue to provide the best service we can despite the setback.”

The Sprague RCMP are investigating this incident but have no suspects at this time. Officials do not believe Piney residents have any reason for concern but ask that all suspicious activity be reported.