Unmarked Florida Cruisers Set On Fire

KENDALL, Fla. --

Someone broke into two unmarked police vehicles early Monday and set them on fire, police said.

The cars were parked outside the Kendall home of two undercover police officers on Sunday night. At some point overnight, someone broke into the two unmarked police vehicles and stole weapons, bulletproof vests and police equipment, including radios, identification and badges. Then, they set the vehicles on fire.

Miami-Dade police are investigating and trying to determine who broke into the SUV and minivan.

Investigators said they do not know how the thieves knew the vehicles contained police equipment. Police sources believe the officers were targeted. Law enforcement sources said stolen equipment is often used in subsequent crimes, Local 10's Mark Joyella reported.

Authorities are concerned because the officers are undercover and drive unmarked vehicles and their identities might be in danger of exposure.

The officers, a husband and wife, work for two different agencies: one for the Miami-Dade Police Department and the other for Doral.

"It's a scary situation," said neighbor Evelyn Olive. "The fact that it had been so close and they have kids, that's very, very scary."

Investigators are examining the vehicles for fingerprints or other evidence. Police are keeping an eye on the neighborhood, and the search continues for the criminals.

The officers and their children were unharmed in the incident.

"It's a reminder police officers can be victims of crimes, just like anyone else," said one police official close to the case.

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