An investigation is underway after an Everett Fire engine was stolen and involved in a series of crashes in North Everett. The stolen 2018 Pierce Enforcer Pumper Fire engine caused significant damage to multiple parked vehicles and landscaping after being taken from the 2900 block of Hoyt Avenue on the night of Friday, July 18. Everett Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to get in touch, as detailed in a public statement reported by the City of Everett's official website.
The fire engine was reportedly taken while the fire crew was attending a medical emergency. According to the Everett Police Department's statements, the suspect led the responding officers to multiple locations with damage before fleeing the scene. The affected areas include 2900 Hoyt Avenue, where the theft occurred, the 1300 and 2600 blocks of Hoyt Avenue, the 500 block of Alverson, and Alverson Boulevard, where landscaping trees and signage were hit. The engine came to a stop after crashing into ten parked vehicles in the 1000 block of E Marine View Drive.
Everett Police Chief John DeRousse expressed his concern about the incident's impact on community safety, saying, "Losing a fire engine to such a reckless person not only jeopardizes the safety of our first responders but also puts our community at risk," in a statement released by the City of Everett's communications. Fire Chief Dave DeMarco commented on the department's gratitude that there were no injuries and their efforts to review protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
With the stolen fire engine now out of commission due to significant damage, a reserve fire apparatus has been put into service to ensure no interruption in emergency services for Everett residents. The police have conducted a K-9 track and established containment around the recovered fire engine, but the suspect is still at large. The Everett Police Department appreciates the support and cooperation of the community, and leads or video footage related to the incident can be reported to the Everett Police Department TIP LINE at (425) 257-8450.
