Flashing stop sign stolen

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River Falls Police Chief Roger Leque said this theft had potentially serious consequences. Someone could’ve been hurt. He’s referring to an expensive, flashing stop sign at Second and Division streets stolen during River Falls Days.

“Somebody’s recklessness in taking that sign left the intersection unregulated and could have caused an accident,” Leque said. “We’re looking for information to help solve the case and hoping someone gives us a call.”

The stop sign was solar powered and flashed brightly along the edges. It was only installed two months ago and cost the city $1,700.

Leque said the Second/Division intersection has long been a chronic source of complaints.

“It’s about westbound drivers (on Division Street) who go through without stopping there,” he said. “We were looking for a way to enhance the visibility of the stop sign.”

The flashy solar-powered sign was well received, Leque said, and catching the attention of westbound Division Street drivers.

However, the new stop sign was unbolted and likely pilfered sometime late Friday night, July 10, or after midnight Saturday, July 11. It was reported missing by the River Falls Ambulance Department at 2:50 a.m. that Saturday.

Leque said a regular looking stop sign, minus the flashing lights, was put up soon afterward.

Do you have any information on this crime?

If so, please call the River Falls police at 425-0909.

Tags: crime and courts, river falls police, news