Local

Local fire department hit by high-powered pellet gun multiple times

BURKE COUNTY, N.C. — Officials said someone is targeting a local fire department and nearby businesses in Burke County.

During the last week, someone has fired a high-powered pellet gun into the Lovelady Fire Department in Valdese several times.

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Firefighters have posted images to their Facebook page, and some of the volunteers are staying at the fire station at night hoping to get a description of a car and put a stop to it.

Volunteer firefighter Tim Hubbard showed Channel 9 where he was Thursday night when he heard what sounded like gunfire and shattered glass coming from the front of the department.

During the last week, a dozen windows have been struck, including four more that were shot out Thursday night while Hubbard and other volunteers were there.

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The department said two of its fire trucks have also been struck by pellets.

Police confirmed to Channel 9 other businesses in the area have also been hit.

Each of the glass panels damaged at the Lovelady Fire Department cost $150 to replace.

Firefighters believe the person is firing the weapon from a car and then quickly leaves.

A couple who live a short distance from the department hope the person responsible is caught.

“These guys really do a great job. I wouldn’t know what they’d have against this fire department. It’s been here forever,” neighbor Dennis Powell said.

The sheriff said multiple places have been hit, including one where a gun was used. Deputies, along with Valdese police, are stepping up patrols in this area this weekend.