Crime Stoppers seeks public help in identifying suspects linked to March 9 theft targeting emergency response equipment.

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — A late afternoon burglary at the Grand Junction National Guard Armory has prompted a countywide investigation, after more than $3,000 worth of emergency response equipment belonging to the city’s fire department was stolen from secured storage containers.

The incident, which occurred between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on March 9, is drawing renewed attention to the vulnerabilities of shared municipal and state properties. Surveillance captured an image of an older model white Ford pickup with an extended bed at the scene—believed to be the suspects’ getaway vehicle.

Crime Stoppers of Mesa County is now calling on the public to help identify the individuals responsible.

Brazen Theft from a Critical Facility

Located off North Avenue, the Grand Junction Armory isn’t just home to the National Guard—it also houses vital equipment for multiple local agencies, including the Grand Junction Fire Department. That made the theft all the more concerning, as it involved gear meant for emergency services.

“It’s not just a matter of property loss,” said a law enforcement spokesperson familiar with the case. “These are tools that help protect the public in real-world crises.”

Officials haven’t specified exactly what was stolen, but noted the items were stored in locked outdoor containers, typically used for overflow and mission-specific gear. The containers were reportedly forced open during the break-in.

What Was Taken

According to early reports, the stolen items included:

• Emergency medical equipment

• Tactical field supplies

• Possibly communication or specialized response tools

Although authorities have not released a complete inventory—citing the ongoing investigation—they’ve confirmed that none of the stolen property involved weapons or hazardous materials.

The Grand Junction Fire Department has not commented publicly but is believed to be cooperating with local law enforcement in identifying and recovering the lost items.

Security Under Scrutiny

The theft has triggered renewed discussion about security protocols at shared-use government facilities. The Armory, while guarded during drills or military activities, often remains relatively low-security during off-hours.

“That area of the property isn’t under 24/7 surveillance, and the containers were outside the main building perimeter,” one official said. “It appears the suspects knew what they were looking for and planned accordingly.”

The fact that the theft occurred in broad daylight—between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.—raises further concerns about how easily unauthorized individuals can access equipment belonging to multiple agencies.

Crime Stoppers Steps In

In response to the incident, Crime Stoppers of Mesa County is leading a public campaign to identify the suspects. They released a photo showing a white, older-model Ford pickup truck with an extended bed near the scene.

The vehicle may have distinguishing marks or features, and anyone who recognizes it is urged to report information confidentially.

How to Help:

• Submit a tip online at www.241stop.com

• Call Crime Stoppers at 970-241-7867

• Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward

No Suspects Yet, But Leads Emerging

As of April 11, no arrests have been made. However, Mesa County investigators say they’ve received several credible leads since the photo was released. The suspects may be local or transient, and officials are reviewing recent pawn activity and private sales of emergency gear.

“We’re not ruling anything out at this stage,” said the Grand Junction Police Department. “There’s a strong possibility that some or all of the items will show up either online or in local resale networks.”

Law enforcement is also reaching out to businesses in the vicinity for additional security footage from that evening.

A Pattern in Gear Theft?

Though authorities have not confirmed any connection, the March 9 break-in follows a national trend of thefts targeting emergency and tactical gear. In recent years, fire departments and military surplus facilities across the U.S. have reported thefts of high-value, specialized equipment.

Some of that gear is later resold illegally, while other items appear to be hoarded for private use or even criminal activity.

Locally, this marks the second time in less than two years that Grand Junction emergency services have suffered equipment losses due to theft.

“This trend is alarming because of the secondary consequences,” one emergency management official noted. “When responders don’t have the right gear, it impacts public safety.”

What’s Next for the City

City officials have yet to comment on whether security upgrades will be made at the Armory or at other shared facilities in the area. However, pressure is building from both the public and internal departments to strengthen protection of critical infrastructure.

“We’re reviewing access controls, surveillance coverage, and container placement,” said a city administrator. “This theft has exposed some gaps that clearly need to be addressed.”

Community on Alert

Mesa County residents are being urged to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious related to the theft. Local businesses—especially secondhand shops, tool suppliers, and pawn stores—have been asked to stay alert for unusual gear or newly listed field equipment.

The Fire Department is expected to issue a formal update in the coming week.