PAWNEE ROCK — Burglars got away with the kitchen sink – and the counters and cabinets, as well as an entire bathroom and other items, the owners of a fully remodeled Pawnee Rock house reported Monday. In fact, Chris and Kristina Frost say the home they restored a few years ago was gutted while it sat unoccupied.
Barton County Undersheriff Larry Holliday confirmed that a burglary at 417 Pawnee Ave. was reported, but as of Tuesday did not have a list of items reported stolen, other than a stove, or an estimated value. The investigation is continuing, he said.
Chris Frost estimates the loss to be in excess of $15,000. Here’s what the Frosts say is missing: an entire kitchen set: six cabinets, two counters, white sink and country looking faucet; entire bathroom: bath/shower kit, sink attached to vanity, over-toilet cabinet and toilet; a large brown living room carpet and pad; almost every light fixture and ceiling fan; water heater; and 55-gallon fish tank with stand.
When the Frosts bought the house in 2008 it was uninhabitable. County records show it was built circa 1924. “We loved that house and put a lot of hard work into it,” Kristina said. “Just to have some people rip everything up is uncalled for.” They lived in it for over a year but later bought a home in Claflin, where they now reside. The house was locked, but someone broke a window to gain entry and unlock a door sometime in June or July, Kristina Frost said. She believes the burglary was more recent, however.
It appears the thieves made multiple trips and were planning on coming back for more.
The laminate flooring in the kitchen had been pulled up and stacked, and was apparently the next thing that was going to come out. A cord had also been cut on the furnace.
“It’s amazing. It was unbelievable,” she said, especially since none of the neighbors apparently saw or heard anything. Now the Frosts are offering a reward to anyone who can help them locate the stolen items. “You will get a $1,000 pre-paid Visa card,” she posted on the Great Bend Tribune Facebook page. “Just call or have someone call 620-868-0503 with a valid name or address. After verifying stuff is there, it’s yours!!!