BURGLARY - 839 W. CONGRESS ST - El Rio Health Center
(COVID-19 Test Kits Stolen)

******UPDATE 03/22/20******

The individual in the photographs HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED. Detectives are continuing their investigation and additional information will be released as it becomes available. Thank you to everyone who assisted with sharing this post and to those who provided timely information to our department.

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The Tucson Police Department is seeking the public's assistance with attempting to identify the pictured burglary suspect.

On March 20, 2020, just before 8:00 p.m., the suspect entered the El Rio Health Center disguised as a delivery driver. He was able to obtain 29 unused COVID-19 Test Kits while employees were getting ready to close for the evening. This morning, employees noticed the missing kits and called 911.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male in his 30's, approximately 5'9 to 5'11 with a large build. He has a full dark-colored beard with some graying. Surveillance video shows the suspect leaving in what appears to be a reddish colored Dodge Charger or similar style vehicle. Anyone with possible information about who this suspect may be is asked to call 88-CRIME. You can remain anonymous.

Detectives are actively investigating this incident. Additional details will be released as they become available.

**Important Notes:

-The stolen test kits are essentially useless to the suspect who stole them. These kits can only be tested in a private lab equipped with the proper tools for testing and reading results.

-Thankfully, the stolen kits have already been replaced, so it has not affected the clinic's testing abilities at this time. It has however taken 29 testing kits out of the medical field for needed testing in the future.

-Do not buy kits from anyone claiming to have Corona Virus Test Kits or COVID-19 Test Kits. It is a scam! There are currently no home test kits for the virus.

-Contact law enforcement immediately if you encounter anyone trying to sell these types of kits.

-For up to date information about the Corona Virus, please visit the Pima County Health Department's website at webcms.pima.gov or the CDC's website at www.cdc.gov