Federal Investigators Seek Suspects in Fire Equipment Theft During Southern California Wildfires

Federal investigators are seeking assistance in identifying two men who allegedly stole equipment from a U.S. Forest Service fire engine in Rancho Cucamonga during a high wind event on January 17. The theft occurred around 3 a.m. while firefighters from San Bernardino National Forest Engine 336 were away from their vehicle, which was parked behind the Hilton Inn Express & Suites. Surveillance footage captured a red two-door Jeep Wrangler pulling up to the engine, from which the suspects forcibly opened three locked compartments and removed essential fire equipment. The first suspect is described as a Caucasian male, between 5'7" and 6' tall, wearing a red jacket and a black knit hat, while the second suspect is identified as a Hispanic male of similar height, dressed in a blue baseball cap and jeans. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the USFS Law Enforcement Officer Tyler Smith. This incident highlights the challenges faced by emergency responders during ongoing wildfires in Southern California.