The Daily Populous Wednesday August 28th, 2024 morning edition
Authored by latimes.com and submitted by RhythmMethodMan

An Oakland fire truck responds to a call. The department says a vital piece of rescue equipment has been stolen.

In the middle of a rescue call last week, someone stole the Jaws of Life from Oakland firefighters, authorities said.

Firefighters had brought out the tool during the call. After they used it, fire officials discovered the equipment had been taken, according to a spokesperson with the Oakland Police Department.

Used by emergency personnel after serious car crashes, the hydraulic tool pries open or cuts through wreckage to rescue someone inside. Jaws of Life tools can be operated by a single individual and generally weigh around 50 pounds.

An Oakland police spokesperson said their tool was taken at about 7:15 p.m. Friday in the 1600 block of West Street.

Police released no information about suspects.

A spokesperson for the Oakland Fire Department said the agency was working with police to recover the tool.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Oakland Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division at (510) 238-3728.

stronghammr113 on August 27th, 2024 at 18:05 UTC »

Look for the obliterated ATM's

sapiosardonico on August 27th, 2024 at 17:19 UTC »

Can't have shit in Oakland.

draconiclyyours on August 27th, 2024 at 16:43 UTC »

Not gonna lie, as heinous as it is to steal from rescue workers…

…I’m actually somewhat impressed. Those things are heavy and awkward, yet someone still managed to grab the 50+lb piece of equipment and dip without being noticed.

Impressive or not, though, here’s to hoping that the prick gets caught. 🤨🖕🏻