Police Seek Suspects After Hartwick Substation Copper Theft
Two masked individuals allegedly stole copper wiring, damaged electrical equipment and triggered a fire at an Otsego County power facility.
New York State Police are asking for the public’s help identifying two suspects in a Hartwick substation copper theft that allegedly caused significant equipment damage, electrical sparks and a fire.
The break-in happened early Thursday, July 23, at the Otsego Electric Cooperative substation at 275 Kinney Road in the town of Hartwick, according to State Police. Investigators said the two individuals entered the fenced property sometime between 2:23 a.m. and 2:47 a.m.
No arrests had been announced when police issued their public appeal.
Copper Wiring Allegedly Stolen From Hartwick Facility
Investigators said the suspects unlawfully entered the secured substation and removed copper wiring.
The alleged theft did more than damage a fence or leave the utility with missing material. According to State Police, removing the wiring damaged electrical equipment and produced sparks that started a fire inside the substation.
“The theft caused significant damage to the electrical equipment, resulting in sparks and a fire within the substation,” State Police said in the release.
Police have not publicly disclosed:
- The estimated cost of the damage
- The amount of copper wiring taken
- Whether customers temporarily lost electrical service
- How the suspects entered the fenced property
- Whether a vehicle was seen near the substation
Those details remain unconfirmed and should not be assumed.
Surveillance Images May Help Identify Suspects
Both individuals had their faces covered during the Hartwick substation copper theft, police said. However, investigators noted that one suspect’s eyes and nose can be seen in surveillance footage.
State Police released an image and posted video connected to the investigation. Authorities hope someone may recognize the suspect through facial features, clothing, movements or other details captured by the security system.
Police have not released the suspects’ names, ages, hometowns or detailed physical descriptions.
Because no one has been charged, the individuals shown in the surveillance material should be described as suspects rather than proven offenders.
Why a Substation Break-In Is Especially Dangerous
An electrical substation is a critical part of the system that moves and controls electricity before it reaches homes, businesses and public facilities.
Entering one without authorization can be extremely dangerous. Substations contain high-voltage equipment that may remain energized even when parts of the facility appear quiet or inactive.
In this case, police said the removal of copper wiring led to sparks and a fire. That illustrates how an apparent attempt to steal metal can quickly become a broader public-safety threat.
A damaged substation can potentially place several groups at risk:
- The suspects themselves, who may be exposed to deadly electrical currents.
- Utility workers, who must enter the damaged facility to inspect and repair equipment.
- Firefighters and emergency responders, who may face electrical hazards while controlling a fire.
- Customers, who may depend on reliable electricity for medical devices, refrigeration, communication and other needs.
State Police have not reported any injuries resulting from this incident.
Public Asked to Report Suspicious Activity
Anyone who recognizes either suspect or noticed unusual activity around Kinney Road during the early morning hours of July 23 is asked to contact New York State Police.
Information that may appear minor could help investigators. Useful details might include:
- A vehicle parked or moving near the substation
- People walking along Kinney Road before or after the break-in
- Unusual noises, flashes or smoke
- Security-camera footage from nearby properties
- Someone attempting to sell unexplained copper wiring
- Statements made by a person claiming knowledge of the incident
Members of the public should not confront anyone they believe may be connected to the case.
How to Contact State Police
Anyone with information about the Hartwick substation copper theft should call New York State Police at:
Phone: 607-561-7400
Case number: NY2600904805
Providing the case number can help direct the information to the correct investigation.
Police are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who saw something suspicious in the area between approximately 2:23 a.m. and 2:47 a.m. on July 23.
Investigation Remains Active
The investigation is being handled by New York State Police at Richfield Springs. Troopers have not announced charges or identified the two suspects.
The case remains a developing investigation. Any additional information, including arrests, confirmed service disruptions or a verified damage estimate, should come from State Police or Otsego Electric Cooperative.
The public can play an important role by reviewing the released surveillance material and reporting factual information. At the same time, residents should avoid posting names or accusations on social media without evidence.
A responsible tip could help investigators solve the case. An unsupported accusation could wrongly identify an innocent person.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact State Police directly and reference case NY2600904805.
