ISLAND PARK, Idaho — Authorities in Eastern Idaho are investigating after rifles were reported missing from a property near Henry’s Lake in Island Park this week. This comes days after reports of another gun theft incident in Southeastern Idaho at a hardware and outdoor store.
According to the Island Park homeowner, the rifles had been stored in a garage but were moved during repair work on Thursday afternoon. The homeowner later discovered that the firearms were missing. A restoration company was working at the owner’s cabin when the rifles disappeared.
The homeowner is now asking residents in the Island Park community to be aware of anyone attempting to sell or otherwise get rid of the missing rifles.
A $1,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the recovery of the firearms.
The Fremont County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the case.
Anyone with information about the missing rifles is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 208-624-4482.
Separate rifle theft reported in Malad
The Island Park investigation comes as authorities in Oneida County investigate a separate firearm theft from Ward’s Ace and Country Store in Malad.
According to investigators, someone broke into the store early Monday morning by breaking through a glass door. Authorities say the suspect stole a 7.62×39 rifle and ammunition.
/ Courtesy of Ward’s Ace and County Store
Surveillance video captured the suspect, who investigators believe may have been wearing a Jackson Hole T-shirt. Investigators also found blood and fingerprints at the scene.
Authorities say the suspect may have attempted to steal handguns but was unable to access the handgun display case.
Anyone with information about the Malad burglary or the suspect’s identity is asked to contact the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office at 208-766-2251.
At this time, authorities say there is no indication the Island Park and Malad cases are connected. The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office also shared on their Facebook page that there is no public threat at this time as investigations into the theft continue.
Local News 8 will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
