November 22, 2007

Burglars violate Frank R. Burroughs’ museum

By Jennifer Larsen

News editor

Ritzville Museum Volunteers were greeted by a saddening discovery Monday afternoon when the front door to the Dr. Frank R. Burroughs’ home was ajar.

According to museum president Ann Olson, a handful of volunteers were at the museum to plant bulbs and needed a garbage bag. When someone went in to get one, the door was open.

Ritzville Police officer Mark Cameron, Adams County Deputy Dan Verhey and Washington State Patrol trooper Jason Kiel responded to the museum on West Main Avenue around 2:15 p.m.

It was discovered that the power and phone lines were cut when the volunteers tried to report the burglary. The museum has an alarm system with a battery backup, but it didn’t trip because the power was cut prior to entering.

The burglars entered through the front door and exited at the side door on the east after failing to exit through the back door. The only damage to the building or artifacts was to the front door jam from entering.

Olson said an initial survey of stolen items includes all of Burroughs’ medical tools in one display case were taken as well as two antique clocks and artwork hanging on the walls.

The thieves were apparently spooked because items taken from the museum were found dropped in the alley.

A witness reported a white van parked in the alley at 4 a.m. Monday morning. The witness also provided a description of a subject, a short male, what he was wearing and that he was talking to someone else.

Police will continue to process the scene. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ritzville Police Department at 659-1313.