H.E. Construction co-owner Noelle Heyink thought her husband was kidding when he told her most of their construction equipment had been stolen.
"He said 'the trucks are gone,' and of course I thought he was joking, I was like 'okay sure,'" says Heyink. "He said, 'no, our trucks are gone, and the four-wheeler, and the lawnmower, and the air compressor.'"
Back on Saturday August 20, multiple suspects broke into H.E. Construction on Thamesville's Industrial Rd. There they stole tools, vehicles and other equipment. Initially, Chatham-Kent police estimated the value of the stolen goods at $100,000, but Heyink says that tally is now closer to $120,000.
She says they've been dealing with insurance companies and adjusters, but at this point their coverage isn't looking good. In the meantime, they still have contracts and orders to complete.
"We've had to rent tools to get us by. Fortunately we have great customer relationships with different companies and suppliers in the area. They've been amazing in helping us limp through," says Heyink.
Heyink says she and her husband also have a great support system. She adds moments like these help her value friendships and family.
"You have people saying 'you can do this. You're strong, you've done this before, you've built from nothing.' Even so much as a hug helps," says Heyink.
She pleads for anyone who has seen any of the stolen equipment, or anything suspicious in the area, to come forward to help police track down the theft suspects. Anyone with information is asked to call Chatham-Kent police or Crime Stoppers.
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