Thieves wreck Tri-Cities ‘Cancer Crushing’ van. It will cost the charity thousands

The Tri-Cities Cancer Center Foundation is looking for help after a thief damaged the center’s new van.

Thieves cut the catalytic converter and oxygen sensor out of the Cancer Crushing van, the foundation said on its Facebook page.

The 2020 Nissan NV passenger van is expected to be out of commission for several weeks.

“This incident has caused several thousands of dollars in damages,” the foundation said. “Any support given would be greatly appreciated as we will need additional funds to support our upcoming efforts.”

Catalytic converter thefts continue to be a large problem across the country. The devices are part of the exhaust system and contain metals that are sold for a lot of money.

Anyone with information about the theft is asked to contact the Kennewick Police Department through the non-emergency dispatch number 509-628-0333 and reference case 22-03437.

You can make donations to the Cancer Center Foundation online at tccancer.org/foundation/donations/ under the “Area of Greatest Need” heading.