Metal thieves cause extensive damage to Winn-Dixie building

Lance Martin
Herald Senior Staff Writer

ROANOKE RAPIDS — Metal thieves caused $75,000 in damages to the old Winn-Dixie building on East Tenth Street, according to the Roanoke Rapids Police Department.

Chief Jeff Hinton said around 11:30 Wednesday morning officers spoke with a contractor doing work in the building.

He reported a large amount of copper wire and pipes were taken from the building, causing extensive damage. “It’s going to take a lot to repair,” Hinton said.

There was no immediate estimate on how much copper was pulled from the building. It is believed the metal theft occurred between July and Wednesday, Hinton said.

Metal thefts are on the increase in the region as the price of recycled metal continues to climb.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

Meanwhile Wednesday, officers responded to River’s Edge Court about copper wiring stolen from a cooling unit being installed at a house under construction.

Approximately $3,500 in damage was done there, Hinton said.

Police continue to investigate and anyone with information is encouraged to call Halifax County Crimestoppers at 583-4444.