Pumping Gas

BAYTOWN, Texas — Thieves using stolen credit cards poached hundreds of gallons of diesel fuel from eight different Buc-ee’s stores.

Investigators believe a crime ring is responsible. Buc-ee’s has a $1,000 reward for tips leading to arrests.

Buc-ee’s is a “must stop” for Texans, tourists, traveling hunters and fuel-needy barbecue lovers.
“Where else can you stop and get cheap gas and then go in there and get food and everything you want?” said Paul Sitarski, a customer.

Lately, it is a target for fuel thieves, too.

“They’re picking on Buc-ee’s?” asked Buddy Self, another customer.

“I don’t know why they’re picking on them,” said customer Angie Heckle. “I guess because of their (sales) volume?”

The thieves stole credit cards somewhere else then used them to purchase fuel at Buc-ee’s, investigators said.

Each time, the suspect filled 200-gallon drums in the beds of pickup trucks with missing or paper license plates, according to investigators.

Several times, thieves got away in a gray truck. They take at least $600 worth of fuel.

The theft ring’s hit list includes Buc-ee’s in Angleton, Waller, Cypress, League City, Baytown, Texas City and both Pearland stores. Camera caught glimpses of suspects wanted by police.

“We shouldn’t have to keep paying for what thieves are doing,” Sitarski said.

The losses hurt so bad, Buc-ee’s owner put up a reward. The chain is offering $1,000 for information leading that helps end of the theft ring.