What started as a routine patrol in Seligman turned into a fuel-theft bust straight out of a crime show, after deputies say they found a U‑Haul dripping diesel and loaded with roughly 2,100 gallons allegedly siphoned from two local gas stations. A deputy reportedly noticed fuel leaking from the truck’s cargo area, followed a trail of shoe prints to a nearby hotel room, and detained the occupants. Authorities say at least one other person is still being sought as the investigation rolls on.
How deputies say they tracked the theft
According to the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to reports of fuel losses at two Seligman pumps and soon located a parked U‑Haul that matched the suspect vehicle description. Investigators say they saw diesel leaking from the cargo area and followed shoe prints from the spill to a nearby hotel room, where occupants were detained for questioning.
What deputies say they seized
A search of the U‑Haul turned up what investigators describe as a makeshift transport setup: seven containers that deputies say were holding approximately 2,100 gallons of stolen diesel. Deputies also report recovering a credit‑card skimmer, receipts for tools used in burglaries, multiple credit cards, and the keys to the U‑Haul. Two men - 37‑year‑old Dachel Campos and 23‑year‑old Jesus Rodriguez Yordy, both from Las Vegas - were arrested in connection with the alleged thefts, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix.
Investigation and how to help
Investigators say a newer‑model black Ford F‑650 flatbed left the area before deputies arrived, and they are now seeking a third suspect tied to the case. Anyone with information is asked to call the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office at 928‑771‑3260 or submit an anonymous tip to Yavapai Silent Witness at 1‑800‑932‑3232.
Authorities say the fuel thefts are not believed to be connected to a recent run of high‑tech train and truck burglaries along Interstate 40, and the case remains active as detectives continue to track leads, according to reporting by FOX 10 Phoenix.
