Posted on 06/03/2004 2:31:59 AM PDT by KentTrappedInLiberalSeattle
LAREDO, Texas - Two propane-delivery trucks were found Wednesday after being stolen from a gas company over the weekend, a theft that raised fears of what could happen if terrorists got hold of the explosive fuel.
The trucks were found on a highway just outside of Laredo, San Antonio police spokeswoman Sandy Gutierrez said. She did not know whether the trucks were still carrying the fuel.
An FBI (news - web sites) spokesman in Laredo did not immediately return a telephone call seeking comment.
Police Chief Albert Ortiz said Tuesday that his department does not suspect that terrorism was behind the thefts. But officials said that since Sept. 11, such a possibility cannot be ignored.
"Four years ago, we probably would not be too concerned about this, San Antonio FBI agent Patrick Patterson said Wednesday on NBC's "Today." "It would be a major theft and handled like any other criminal investigation. Because of the nature of the day, we are very, very concerned about the whereabouts of these two trucks."
One of the tankers carried about 3,000 gallons of propane, while the other held 2,600 gallons, police said. The trucks were taken from a parking lot owned by Ferrellgas and have the company logo on them.
Another FBI spokesman, Rene Salinas, said the market for propane in Mexico is strong and that the thieves could have been filling an order, mirroring a similar theft about nine months ago. A nationwide alert has been posted and law enforcement officials in Mexico also have been contacted, he said.
"We don't want to alarm anyone," Salinas said. "But we do want people to be on the lookout."
Also under investigation is the weekend theft of 15 gas canisters from an ambulance supply company. Authorities do not believe the thefts are related.
It's GOD's gas. Don't mess with GOD's gas, and Don't Mess With Texas!
I knew no harm could ever be done to America by sweet lady propane.
Only enough to grill a few steaks was missing.
LOL! Beat me to it!
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.