Thieves destroy nearly 75 Detroit fire hydrants to steal metal parts, putting lives at risk

Thieves have destroyed nearly 75 fire hydrants on the west side of Detroit in the last 48 hours, stealing parts and putting lives at risk. Crews with the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department are racing to repair the broken hydrants along Southfield Road and across the west side after thieves tore through dozens in about two days. "We think the number is about 75 so far," DWSD Deputy Director Sam Smalley said. The thieves are targeting metal nozzles and stems on top of the hydrants, which are worth about $600. Executive Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms said the vandalism is a...