'The lowest of low': Thieves target Auburn fire victims displaced from homes

AUBURN, Wash. - Police report thieves are targeting families that were displaced from their homes by a fire in Auburn.

On Sunday, a fire at the Riverfront Apartments in Auburn forced about 100 people from their homes. 

Auburn police told FOX 13 News on Wednesday that they started getting calls about thieves stealing from the complex.

Police said a thief, or thieves, hit at least 15 units. Seven out of the 15 break-ins happened on Nov. 11, police said.

"Everything is gone," said Barbara Shelton. "I mean, my father’s ashes were stolen. I mean, they came in and went through [the] apartment like you wouldn’t believe. It’s disgusting."

Shelton was staying at her sister’s apartment this weekend when the fire broke out. She says she can’t believe someone would take advantage of her family when they’re already dealing with so much.

"To me, that is the lowest of the low," said Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus. "That’s what challenges me the most, is to understand how someone could be that horrible as to go in and profit, benefit from someone else’s trauma," she added.

Backus tells FOX 13 News she wanted to come out and show support for her community. She says the city is also working with the Auburn Food Bank to help give these families a glimmer of hope.

The Auburn Food Bank is raising money for the victims of the fire via a GoFundMe. You can read more about their effort, or donate here.

Backus says it is not a requirement for on-site security with a large fire. However, she says there will be security on-site following this incident.

One person was arrested on Nov. 11. Police say they found him in one of the damaged units with stolen goods in his backpack. 

Stay connected with FOX 13 News on all platforms:
DOWNLOAD: FOX 13 News and Weather Apps
WATCH: FOX 13 News Live
SUBSCRIBE: FOX 13 on YouTube
DAILY BRIEF: Sign Up For Our Newsletter
FOLLOW: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram