Seattle, WA – A Ballard construction site has been the target of multiple thefts over the past four months, with the most recent incident occurring on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2025, authorities said.
Seattle Police Department (SPD) reported that thieves stole industrial power cables and copper wiring from the site of a seven-story apartment building in the 5600 block of 20th Avenue Northwest, often striking during holidays when construction crews were absent.
Incident Overview
SPD said the latest theft involved three men climbing over a fence and taking nearly a dozen large power cables. The repeated incidents prompted the construction company to install tracking devices inside the wiring to help recover stolen property and identify suspects.
Investigators followed the tracking devices to locations within Ballard, where they discovered vehicles and equipment connected to copper stripping and resale operations. Two cars were impounded and secured at SPD’s North Precinct.
Recovery of Stolen Property and Narcotics
On Thursday, police executed a search warrant on the impounded vehicles, recovering hundreds of pounds of stolen copper wire, tracking devices, digital scales, nearly $5,000 in cash, and a significant amount of narcotics. SPD detailed the drugs seized:
- 169.7 grams of methamphetamine (distribution-level)
- 107 grams of fentanyl
- More than 14.3 grams of 4-methylaminorex
- 9.8 grams of suspected heroin
- 6.7 grams of psilocybin mushrooms
- 1.7 grams of marijuana, along with cutting agents
Police estimate the thefts from the construction site have resulted in approximately $40,000 in losses.
“The thefts have caused significant financial impact on the project, and the use of tracking devices has allowed us to recover stolen property and gather evidence,” SPD said.
Ongoing Investigation
Despite the recovery of stolen copper, cash, and drugs, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains active. SPD continues to follow leads in the hopes of identifying and apprehending the individuals responsible for the repeated thefts.
Authorities warn that construction sites are vulnerable targets for copper and wiring theft, particularly during off-hours and holidays. Law enforcement encourages companies to secure materials, install tracking devices, and maintain surveillance, while reminding residents to report suspicious activity near construction sites.
Public Safety and Awareness
Copper theft often fuels illegal resale operations and associated criminal activity, including drug distribution, as illustrated by the large quantity of narcotics seized during this investigation. SPD advises community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious vehicles or activity near construction zones.
Conclusion
The string of thefts at the Ballard construction site highlights ongoing challenges faced by construction companies and law enforcement in protecting valuable materials. Police continue to investigate the incidents, recover stolen property, and pursue those responsible.
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