A man in Douglas County, Colorado, is facing multiple charges after he allegedly burglarized a home and fled on an electric bicycle (e-bike). He is also accused of blocking an evacuation route with his car amid a local wildfire.
According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO), the incident occurred earlier in the last week of July, amid the Penley Fire in Sedalia. At the time, law enforcement agents and first responders were focused on the wildfire, which started on Sunday, July 26.
With everyone’s hands on deck with the wildfire, an individual arrived at a house on the market near Roxborough Park. That same individual, then identified as 40-year-old Tony Hoang, is accused of entering the unoccupied home.
The homeowner began receiving multiple security camera system alerts, telling him someone had broken into their home. Immediately, they called 911.
Evacuation Route Obstructed
During the reported burglary, Hoang did more than just enter a home while uninvited. The DCSO said that he also used his car to block a gate and road.
This, in general terms, would be an inconvenience. However, with the Penley Fire still rampant at the time, the suspect had effectively obstructed an evacuation route.
Therefore, authorities needed to act fast either way. Thankfully, the homeowner provided a detailed description of the suspect, with the sheriff’s office also commending their quick thinking.
Arrested and Charged
Deputies responded to the burglarized residence in no time. They were so fast that they managed to catch Hoang leaving the scene.
The DCSO said that he was riding an e-bike at the time. He was immediately placed under arrest.
Hoang, a Denver resident, is facing multiple charges in connection with the incident. Although unspecified, the man was charged with burglary, which could land him in prison for up to 12 years.
Penley Fire, Contained
As stated above, the Penley Fire started back on July 26. Watch Duty reported that it started as a 0.5-acre fire, but hours later, it grew to 3 acres.
To help contain the fire, more than 125 firefighters from 10 agencies began working together. Meanwhile, many residents were evacuated.
“I am always blown away every time I see people go up there,” West Douglas Fire Chief John Oravez said. “They are typically clean in the morning, shovel in hand. They come that night. You can barely recognize them. They’re covered in soot. They just are smiling from ear to ear, saying I made a difference today.”
By July 27, the fire remained at 3 acres and was 75% contained. A day later, it was 90% contained, reaching 100% containment on July 29, effectively lifting all evacuation orders and warnings.