VILNA - Smoky Lake RCMP are investigating a recent break-in and theft of fire-fighting equipment from the Vilna Fire Hall.
On Aug. 26, 2023, Smoky Lake RCMP received a call of a break, enter and theft at the Vilna Fire Department. The initial investigation shows that one or more suspects gained entry into the building and stole a hand-held AFRACS digital radio and extrication tools including the Jaws of Life, a hydraulic tool that can cut through metal ot help free people trapped in wreckage.
The total value of the equipment stolen is estimated to be $100,000.
This Vilna Fire Hall theft is being investigated by the Smoky Lake RCMP along with the assistance with the Eastern Alberta District RCMP Forensic Unit.
The community of Vilna is located 55 kilometres west of St. Paul on Highway 28 and 80 kilometres south of Lac La Biche.
If anyone has information regarding this crime, they can contact the Smoky Lake RCMP at 780-656-3691 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
RELATED ARTICLE: Rich Lake Fire Hall theft in 2020
The break-in at a rural fire station is the second in just over a year in the Lakeland. In November of 2020, the Rich Lake Fire Hall, 70 kilometres north of Vilna, was also broken into, and several pieces of firefighting equipment were stolen. That theft has not been solved.