Central Florida fire stations have become the target of burglars, with five stations hit while firefighters were out on calls. The Orange County Fire Rescue's John Westmoreland described the situation as "unconscionable," noting the inherent risk firefighters take to "help serve the community," as per FOX 35 report. Vehicles belonging to these community protectors were vandalized and robbed, with the thefts reportedly occurring after midnight, some following false alarms—indicative of a potential criminal strategy.
In the most recent break-ins, occurring on Sunday and Monday, thieves struck three Orange County fire stations and two in Seminole County. Stations 12 and 14 in Seminole County suffered 12 vehicle breaches on Monday alone. These Central Florida fire stations, in Orange and Seminole Counties, reported several instances of closed vehicles being broken into, with personal belongings taken from within, according to ClickOrlando.
The string of burglaries reflects a disturbing nationwide trend that has seen similar episodes in other states, including Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Missouri, and Colorado over the last six months. The Seminole County Fire Department has responded by encouraging firefighters to ensure their vehicles are particularly secure and to avoid storing valuable items inside.
"We regret that many of our firefighters who proudly serve the community were victims in this crime," an SCFD spokesperson stated, as reported by ClickOrlando. The Fire Departments are considering bolstering security measures, though most stations are already equipped with cameras. The investigation continues, with authorities urging anyone with information about suspicious activities near fire stations to come forward.
