“We definitely feel UNPREPARED”: Humane Society of Central Oregon’s disaster trailer stolen
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Humane Society of Central Oregon's disaster trailer was stolen Saturday night, Feb. 14, from its facility in Bend. The theft occurred at approximately 8:13 p.m. and has deprived the organization of essential emergency response equipment.
The trailer is a critical resource that allows the society to provide immediate assistance during local disasters. Surveillance cameras captured a white Chevy van scouting the location earlier on the day of the theft while the organization was open for animal adoptions.
Security footage showed the white Chevy van driving out of the parking lot with the trailer attached. Earlier that day, the same vehicle was observed scouting the area several times while the organization was busy conducting animal adoptions at the facility.
At the time of the theft, the trailer was fully stocked with emergency supplies, including bandages and care equipment. The loss of the equipment has left staff concerned about their ability to respond to immediate needs.
Wendy Arnold, the foster program manager for the Humane Society of Central Oregon, said the absence of the trailer creates a significant gap in their operations.
"We definitely feel unprepared. Because it's something that's just kind of always been there," Arnold said. "And so not having it kind of definitely makes a hole in kind of what we like to be able to help with."
In addition to medical supplies, the trailer contained numerous wire crates used to transport and house animals during disaster response efforts. It also held a table and chairs that allowed staff to set up a mobile response station at a moment's notice.
Without these items, the organization is unable to deploy the key supplies necessary for animal care in crisis situations.
The City of Bend Police Department is investigating the incident and has labeled it as case #26-8557. Officials are asking anyone with information regarding the theft or the current location of the trailer to contact the non-emergency dispatch line at 541-693-6911.
