Early-morning break in and theft at Crook County Fair has Prineville Police searching for two suspects

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Prineville Police are asking for the public's help in an early-morning break-in and theft from several vendors at the Crook County Fair.

Police say a security guard reported that two people had broken into a vendor's booth at 3:35 AM Friday.

Sergeant Daniel Pelayo told KTVZ News that several other vendors reported later in the morning that they were also broken into, and had items taken from them.

The Prineville Review, which first broke the news, reported that a security guard injured himself while engaging in a foot pursuit of the suspects. The security guard's boss said the employee is feeling better today.

Amanda was one of the vendors who was broken into and told the Prineville Review, "I'm just really frustrated...but what's really frustrating to me is that my kids, who are 10 and 7, they saved their own money into starting their business, and they had $50 worth of products stolen."

Crook County Sheriff John Gautney told the Prineville Review that they plan to increase foot patrols at the fairgrounds.

Prineville Police are working to get video of the suspects, and could not provide identifying characteristics. Fair organizers have not yet issued a statement.

The news rocked residents and vendors, who took to social media to share their frustration, but also to offer support to the vendors who were victimized. The historic Crook County Fair brings immense pride to the small town, which is known for its Western values and cowboy way of life.

Police are asking for the public's help with any related information. If you know anything, you're asked to call the Prineville Police Department at 541-447-4168,and ask for Officer Mitch Merrit.