Copper wire thieves are targeting small businesses along Northwest Market Street in Ballard, leaving owners with thousands of dollars in repair bills. Many local establishments have been hit repeatedly this year, with some reporting multiple incidents in a single week.
The Sloop Tavern also reported being hit by thieves as recently as last week. The owner told KIRO 7 this was the third time the business had been targeted this year. Despite the thief only obtaining approximately $10 worth of copper, from TK, the tavern told KIRO 7 it faced a $5,000 repair bill for the damage left behind.
Owners have shared photos of the damage to warn other local businesses…