Bethany Gun Store Theft Leaves Owner Reeling

Jamie Oberg, News 9

BETHANY, Oklahoma – Nearly 30 guns are missing from a Bethany gun shop and police are looking for leads to get those guns back where they belong.

Twenty-nine single shot, camouflaged hunting rifles were taken from a truck parked near Ed Kirkpatrick's gun shop last Friday.

Although the police station is only two blocks away, police don't have any leads in the case yet.

Kirkpatrick has been selling specialty guns in Bethany for ten years.

"Bethany is a very safe place to do business and we've never had problems before."

Police said they don't think the public is in any great danger due to the specialty nature of the guns stolen, but Kirkpatrick is in danger of having to close up shop. The theft Friday night will cost him about $30,000.

"Insurance on firearms is very expensive, so I didn't have insurance," he said.

Selling guns is just a side job for Kirkpatrick, a way to make extra money and take care of his customers. Friday night's theft may scuttle his plans.

"I'm fixing to retire next year and was hoping to do this after I retire," he said. "I would really like to continue business and take care of ‘em."

After the theft, Kirkpatrick said, he isn't sure what the future holds.

"All I can do is keep trying and take care of my customers and hope to continue the business in spite of this."

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