Vancouver police are investigating after a man pretending to be a firefighter was able to talk his way into an East Side home earlier this week.
Police said a suspect wearing a navy blue T-shirt with a fire department logo on it came to the front door of a home near 35th Avenue and Main Street on Monday.
He reportedly told the homeowner he needed to check all the entrances and exits of the home, including the doors to the bedrooms.
“He wasn’t permitted into the house at that time but he returned later in the afternoon and a relative let him into the house and escorted him around the house,” Const. Brian Montague said.
The disconcerted homeowner later contacted City Hall, and was told firefighters don’t conduct home inspections unless asked by residents.
“Clearly this individual was looking for a crime of opportunity – looking for an opportunity to steal something from the home or potentially casing it for a future date,” Montague said.
Police said nothing was taken during the fake firefighter’s intrusion, as the family member stayed with him the entire time.
Authorities are now searching for a suspect described as white, 6’ tall, 170 to 180 lbs. with a medium build and short, curly, dirty blonde hair. He was carrying a clipboard when he showed up at the home.
Police advise anyone who sees a firefighter at their door to ask for proper identification, and contact 311 if they have concerns.
