Aurora police say they have a suspect in connection with the Red Cross van that was stolen from the organization’s parking lot.
And the Red Cross has received a replacement van, thanks to the efforts of a local radio deejay.
Police developed information this week that led to the arrest of Joey Young, 24, in connection with the theft of the Red Cross van taken Sunday. Authorities, however, declined to provide more information about the case.
“Because it’s still under investigation, we can’t go into detail,” said Aurora police spokeswoman Kathleen Walsh.
If convicted, Young could face charges for theft by receiving, criminal trespassing, criminal mischief and possession of burglary tools, Walsh said.
The Chevy Suburban was stolen from the Red Cross center located at East First Avenue and Havana Street.
The van was found heavily damaged behind a shopping center at East Mississippi Avenue and South Potomac Street on Monday night, after someone phoned in a tip to police.
Most of the supplies were missing from the vehicle, and the American Red Cross estimated a loss of $25,000.
After hearing about the theft, Rick Crandall, a morning deejay on KEZW 1430 AM, raised money for a 1996 Chevrolet Suburban.
“This is a godsend to us,” Red Cross spokesman Robert Thompson said. “This will ensure that the American Red Cross will be able to be there with the folks in need when they are affected with a disaster.”
Crandall could not be reached for comment.
Staff writer Daarel Burnette II can be reached at dburnette@denverpost.com or 303-820-1201.
