ROSS COUNTY – Tools and equipment used for historical studies were stolen over the weekend in Ross County now the preservationist is asking for help to identify.
“Our resource management trailer and almost $9,000 worth of tools and equipment were stolen on Saturday, October 9, 2021, at 2:15 pm by the people and vehicle pictured. This equipment is critical for conducting archeological studies and other resource management practices,” said Hopewell Cultural park.
The park said that the suspects were so brazen that they committed the felony in daylight.
The vehicle description is dark blue or black approximately 1999 – 2003 GMC Sierra Truck with 4×4 stickers on the rear quarter panels and silver door ding trim along both sides. The rear bumper is heavily dented. The rear quarter panels (sides of the truck bed) are also heavily dented. The rear tire fenders are missing and the edges are rusted through. The front tire fenders are still present and are black. The tire rims are heavy-duty black with a lighter lining, likely silver/chrome. There is a sticker or graphic in the upper left corner of the tailgate.
The driver appears to be a white male possibly around 6′ tall, thin to medium build. He was wearing a black jacket or sweatshirt and a white logo can be seen on the front (possibly “NIKE” with the emblem) below. Gray pants, possibly sweatpants and white gym shoes. He wore a backwards dark colored ballcap and used something like a dark neck gaiter to cover his face up to his eyes.
The passenger appeared to be smaller and thinner. Possibly juvenile male or a female. They covered their head with a long-sleeved shirt.
Please call US Park Ranger Law Enforcement Specialist Keith Gad at 937-681-8308 or e-mail him at [email protected] if you recognize the vehicle or the suspects. Valid anonymous tips are welcome.
