Watch CBS News

Caught On Camera: Police Investigate Series Of Propane Tank Thefts

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Police are on the hunt for the suspect or suspects wanted for allegedly stealing propane tanks in Philadelphia.

Authorities say the first incident occurred last week.

Police say the suspect gained entry into the rear yard of James D. Morrisey Inc. on the 4700 block of Pennypack Street by cutting the chain that secured the gate.

Once inside the yard, police say the suspect gained entry to a propane enclosure by cutting the chain link fence. The suspect then allegedly took five 100 pound propane tanks, four 33 pound propane tanks and two 20 pound propane tanks.

WATCH:

Multiple Thefts DC 15 08 047844 DC 15 15 122555 DC 15 15 124135 by PhiladelphiaPolice on YouTube

Authorities say they were valued at approximately $3,000.

In the second incident, authorities say the unknown suspect or suspects gained entry to Phax-Air on the 2300 block of Church Street by cutting a hole in the security fence then driving a vehicle into the yard.

Once inside, police say the suspect took 12 propane fork lift tanks, four 40 pound propane tanks, four 60 pound propane tanks and four 100 pound propane tanks.

Officials say they were valued at $4,800.

In the third incident, police say two unknown males, driving what appears to be a Ford Escape, entered inside an unsecured parking lot of Prax-Air and stopped in front of the secured fence area.

The front seat passenger then exited the vehicle and climbed over a six foot razor topped fence.

The suspect then throws several propane tanks over the fence. Police say he then climbed back over the fence and placed the tanks in the hatchback compartment, got back into the passenger side of the vehicle and fled the scene.

Authorities say six size 4 Acetylene tanks were taken.

Police ask anyone for information on the crime or the suspect to call Northeast Detective Division: 215-686-3153/3154

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.