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Police say man tried to gather volunteer fire department’s gear

Equipment’s value totaled $2,050

An Altoona man is behind bars after he was allegedly caught inside a volunteer fire department gathering up gear.

Hollidaysburg Borough police arrested Brian A. Hoover, 28, of 130 Sixth Ave., Apt. 4, early Friday after members of the Phoenix Volunteer Fire Department showed up at the fire hall at 206 Wayne St. and saw Hoover inside.

According to police, Hollidaysburg Police Officer William Sheehan and Allegheny Township Officer Henry T. Fownes found Hoover hiding in an upstairs storage room at the fire hall after police were called about 4:30 a.m.

Police said video surveillance revealed Hoover entered the building about 4:20 a.m. and could be seen gathering up gear and stacking it by the door. At one point, Hoover placed a party hat over the surveillance camera, police said.

In all, Hoover allegedly had retrieved $2,050 worth of equipment, including bunker pants, boots, a helmet and a radio charger.

Police said Hoover had a key fob for the building that belonged to a member on him when he was arrested. Police believe Hoover used the fob to get into the building.

Hoover is charged with felony burglary and criminal trespass along with misdemeanor attempted theft and receiving stolen property.

Hoover was arraigned Friday morning by Magisterial District Judge Paula Aigner, and he was placed in Blair County Prison in lieu of $50,000 cash bail.

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