Propane tanks targeted by thieves

Thieves took several propane tanks in Hilmar this week, Merced County Sheriff's Department reported.

The first theft was reported around 6 p.m. on Nov. 20, according to Deputy Tom MacKenzie, sheriff's spokesman. Someone cut the lock from a propane tank storage area in the 8000 bock of Lander Avenue, taking 22 tanks.

On Tuesday, around 8:30 a.m. more tanks were reported stolen from another location in the 8000 block of Lander Avenue. It's unknown whether the thefts were related, MacKenzie said.

The Merced County Sheriff's Department is asking anyone with information about the thefts or related suspicious activities to call (209) 385-7444.

-- Victor A. Patton