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Wichita police concerned about burglars setting fire to homes

February 23, 2012|by John Boyd and Brian Heap | KWCH 12 Eyewitness News

(WICHITA, Kan.) — Wichita Police call it an "unusual" crime trend.  Twice this week, burglars have broken into homes, committed burglaries, and then started fires.

Investigators say there are similarities, between the incident Tuesday morning on S. Stoneybrook and the one Wednesday night on N. North Shore, but they can't say for certain the cases are connected. 

"It's curious, but not unheard of," said Wichita Fire Investigator Stuart Bevis of the cases.  Bevis noted there are also dissimilarities between the incidents. 

The burglary fires happened on opposite sides of town at opposite times of day, Bevis said.  The points of entry were opposite as well, with the Stoneybrook thief entering the front door and the other arsonist prying open a basement walk-out door. 

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Photos: Fire on Northshore

"I feel like I'm homeless right now," said Quyen Nguyen, owner of the home at 1215 N. North North Shore.  Standing in the charred remains of his living room, Nguyen said the thief stole cash, jewelry and small electronics.

"Why don't they just take the stuff and leave?" he asked rhetorically.

Police and fire officials are investigating.  They urge citizens to remain watchful of their neighborhoods and to report suspicious activity.  Anyone with tips about these burglary arsons can call Crimestoppers anonymously at (316) 267-2111.

Wichita police concerned about burglars setting fire to homes
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