Thief hits queens trade school twice, steals $87k in copper pipes

Queens, NY – A brazen burglar is being sought after targeting the same Long Island City trade school twice in less than a month, making off with tens of thousands of dollars worth of copper piping.

The break-ins occurred at Apex Technical School on 44th Drive, police said.

The New York City Police Department has released images of the suspect, asking for the public’s help in identifying the individual.

Authorities said the first burglary happened on October 14 around 9:30 p.m., when the suspect forced open the front door and removed approximately $45,000 worth of copper pipes and fittings before fleeing.

The second incident took place on November 7 at about 8:30 p.m., when the same person allegedly pried open an emergency exit door at the school and took another $42,000 worth of copper materials.

Investigators obtained surveillance footage from the November 7 burglary that shows the individual entering and leaving the school. The images have been distributed by the NYPD’s Deputy Commissioner of Public Information in hopes that someone will recognize the suspect.

Detectives believe the same person may be responsible for both incidents based on the method of entry and the specific type of property stolen. No injuries were reported in either case.

The NYPD is urging anyone with information about the burglar’s identity or whereabouts to contact the department’s Crime Stoppers hotline or submit tips online. All calls are confidential.

Apex Technical School, located in the heart of Long Island City’s industrial corridor, offers trade programs in areas such as plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC. The school remained open following the incidents, though additional security measures have reportedly been implemented.

Key Points

Two burglaries occurred at Apex Technical School in Long Island City, weeks apart.
The thief stole a total of $87,000 in copper pipes and fittings.
NYPD released surveillance images and is seeking public assistance in identifying the suspect.

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