Crime & Safety

UPDATE: Business Owners Beware: Scam Artist Impersonates PTFD

Bartram House Bakery in McMurray was targeted Wednesday, according to a police report.

"There's no new code, no new deal," Deputy Chief Noel "Mac" McMullen, of the , told owner Tim Warne after Warne realized he'd been scammed. 

The report was made at 2:59 p.m. on Wednesday after a man visited the McMurray bakery claiming he was a representative for a fire extinguisher company, and worked closely with the PTFD.

"Basically, he got the cashier to give him $300 for services he said he performed on the extinguishers," McMullen said. 

Find out what's happening in Peterswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

According to police, the man left with $298.75.

The chief said no other businesses have been targeted as of yet, and he wants to try to avoid them getting "bilked out of cash."

Find out what's happening in Peterswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"The man claimed he worked hand-in-hand with the PTFD and the fire marshal," he said. "He even made a phone call from the business to owner Tim (Warne), convincing him he was legitimate." 

McMullen said Peters Township business owners should know that no new program requiring an inspection has been put into place, and that this is a scam.

 have provided photos of the "heavyset" suspect above. Peters police also said they do know he's targeted another business—in the city of Pittsburgh. 

If you recognize the man, please contact Peters police at 724-942-5030.

Has your business been targeted? Tell us in the comments.


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