Critical 'jaws of life' for road collisions stolen during fire station break-in

Police are appealing for information following a report of a burglary from a fire station in the Baronscourt Road area of Newtownstewart on Sunday night last.

Meanwhile David Nichol, Western Area Commander, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) said: “I can confirm that several pieces of equipment, which are critical to our operational response to road traffic collisions, have been stolen from Newtownstewart Fire Station, Co Tyrone following a break – in.

“Other items including an angle grinder, a drill and an electric saw have also been stolen and substantial damage was caused to the back door of the Fire Station from forced entry to the building.

“The break-in was discovered this morning (Monday March 20) around 7.30am. It is believed the items were stolen between 10.15pm and 10.45pm last night (Sunday March 19).

“Known as hydraulic cutters or ‘the jaws of life’, these vital pieces of operational equipment are used by Newtownstewart Firefighters to help rescue casualties from serious road traffic collisions - when seconds count in saving lives. I am appealing for all of these items to be returned to the Fire Station immediately.

“Newtownstewart Fire Station has had reduced operational capability today with Firefighters unable to respond to road traffic collisions in the area for a period of time until this equipment was replaced. I would like to reassure the local community that contingency arrangements are in place to maintain our full emergency response in the area. Arrangements are being taken to replace the equipment and contractors are also on site to repair the damage to the Station.

“It’s very disappointing that NIFRS and local Firefighters who work tirelessly for their community, would be targeted in such a way that leaves the community without lifesaving equipment. I recognise the impact this has had on Newtownstewart Firefighters and I would like to thank them for their dedication to their community and their support at this time.

“PSNI Officers have attended the scene and we continue to liaise with them on their enquiries.”

PSNI Inspector McDermott said: "We received a report this morning, Monday 20th March, that a fire station had been broken into on Sunday March 19.

"Following initial enquiries we now believe that the break in occurred between 10.15pm and 10.45pm last night.

"We believe that two men dressed in dark clothes entered through the back door of the premises, before making off in a silver or grey Volkswagen Passat with a number of items.”

PSNI Inspector McDermott added: “Enquiries are continuing and officers investigating this report are keen to hear from witnesses or anyone who may have captured CCTV or dashcam footage in the area.

"We would appeal to anyone with any information to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 232 20/03/23.

"Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ .

"You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/."