Firefighter’s wallet stolen, bank account drained as he fought wildfires, CA chief says

Someone broke into a firefighter’s work vehicle and emptied his bank account as he fought fires associated with the CZU Lightning Complex, a fire official said Sunday.

Cal Fire was giving an update on the blazes when Chief Mark Brunton said the department was having issues with people in evacuated zones hindering firefighters.

Brunton went on to say that someone broke into a fire commander’s department vehicle while he was directing crews to help fight the fires in Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties.

The person stole some of the commander’s personal effects, including his wallet, and “drained his bank account,” Brunton said.

“It’s saddening, it’s sickening and we are doing everything we can to try to help the community and unfortunately, this happens,” he added.

Brunton didn’t give any more details, but Cal Fire is directing anyone with inquiries into the incident to contact the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.

This story was originally published August 23, 2020 at 11:28 AM with the headline "Firefighter’s wallet stolen, bank account drained as he fought wildfires, CA chief says."