The grant, written by the city fire department, was awarded through the county Emergency Management Agency (EMA) from the state’s Homeland Security Grant Program.  

The hazmat team responds throughout Columbiana County when requested by local fire departments, and this equipment upgrade will enhance responders’ safety, according to East Liverpool fire Chief Bill Jones.

The departments include Gloucester Township fire districts 2, 4, 5, and 6, the Pine Hill Fire Department, the Lindenwold Fire Department, and the Deptford Fire Department.

 

Norcross said making sure firefighters receive the protection and equipment they need is important to ensure they can continue to do their job of protecting our communities safety.

 

Before fleeing, the man stopped, pulled a gun from his waistband, and pointed it at a door to an area where fire personnel were present after apparently hearing a noise, according to the JPSO.

Some of the stolen property was later found abandoned in Plaquemines Parish.

Anyone with information regarding the identity of this suspect or on any of the stolen property is asked to call Detective Craig Toups of the JPSO Burglary and Theft Section at (504) 364-5300 or contact Crimestoppers.