A reward of up to $5,000 has been announced by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Vandalia Police Department for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for stealing firearms from the Vandalia Range and Armory on May 4.

Thirty-one firearms were stolen from the armory at 100 Corporate Center Drive.

“Law enforcement is seeking assistance from the public in locating these weapons and identifying those responsible,”  Vandalia police Chief Doug Knight said.          

Investigators have developed information regarding the burglary but need information from the community to help solve the crime.

“Through experience, we know that stolen firearms are used in furtherance of drug and gang related activities, and as well are utilized by violent criminals to perpetrate additional crimes,” said Robert Browning, special agent in charge, ATF Columbus Field Division.

Anyone with information is asked to call the ATF crime gun hotline toll free at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867) or Vandalia police at (937) 898-5868.  Callers to the ATF hotline may remain anonymous.