OCSD investigating weekend burglary, theft at Lick Creek VFD
The Lick Creek Volunteer Fire Depart-ment on J Highway was burglarized over the weekend, and several items were stolen.
Lick Creek VFD chief Jerry Rowlett and his wife June told the Times that June arrived at the firehouse Sunday morning to pick up certificates for their firefighters and saw that the kitchen window, located in the rear of the building, had been broken. An office door was also kicked in, and several things were scattered around the interior of the building. Missing items include gasoline, a chainsaw and case, a gear bag, first aid supplies, a helmet, tools and mats.
A local contractor estimated the damage to the firehouse at $1,050.
Jerry Rowlett said he was at the firehouse Friday night, so the break-in must have occurred sometime between Friday evening, Feb. 14, when Jerry was there, and Sunday morning, Feb. 16, when June arrived.
The Rowletts believe the intruder may have burglarized the firehouse Saturday afternoon because when they checked the White River Valley Electric Cooperative’s app, they noticed a sharp uptick in the amount of electricity that was recorded as being used at the building Saturday around noon, perhaps indicating when the window was broken and lights turned on.
Jerry said he’s started the repairs, and June has filed the paperwork with the insurance company.
The fire department is also investing in surveillance cameras to be installed around the firehouse.
Ozark County Sheriff Darrin Reed told the Times that the case is currently being investigated. Anyone with information relating to the burglary, is asked to call the Ozark County Sheriff’s Department at 417-679-4633.