Attempted Burglars Target Kittanning Radio Station

by Jonathan Weaver

Another burglary attempt was made in North Buffalo Township early this morning.

Pennsylvania State Police troopers are investigating the attempted burglary at the WTYM AM 1380 Radio tower along Bunker Hill Road at about 2:30AM.

However, upon arrival, Family-Life Media President David Croyle only found damage to a pad lock on the main door. He said a high-tech security system sounded when the door was opened and cameras outside the building were also activated.

“Radio equipment in the tower was not damaged, resulting in the station staying on the air during the break-in,” Croyle said.

State Police discovered that the attempted burglars could have entered through a portion of security fence. Troopers who responded overnight will also be reviewing video files to determine the identity of the attempted burglars.

Croyle said neighbors will be alerted to this early-morning burglary attempt and will be asked to report any suspicious activity to police.

This morning’s attempt was just one of many North Buffalo Township officials have been warning local homeowners about.

Earlier this month, North Buffalo Township Police Chief Jason Hufhand said he and State Police troopers have been notified that there were several thefts of money from unlocked vehicles along Pony Farm Road.

Township Supervisor Chair David Wolfe estimated there were more than a half-dozen incidents in the early morning hours, and urged local residents to be careful.

“Please lock your car doors – even if they’re in your driveways, in front of your homes. Do not leave any money, valuables. Ladies, please take your purses in (the house),” Wolfe said. “There’s been a rash of entries – not break-ins because the doors are open – but people have been going into cars – taking change, taking money, cell phones, iPads.”

Chief Hufhand added that it is also dangerous to leave debit or credit cards inside the vehicle since thefts can occur by suspects taking photographs of important information.

“Some of these are not disrupting the vehicles – they’re putting items back in the exact same spot because they don’t want you to know that they’ve been in there,” Wolfe added. “They’re planning on continually coming back.”

A known suspect allegedly walks to check if vehicles are unlocked. The individual is also reportedly suspected of another burglary.

Chief Hufhand and State troopers are continuing the investigation by viewing video tape surveillance.

Anyone with information that could assist with the investigations is asked to contact PSP Kittanning at 724-543-2011.

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