The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office needs help from the public to locate missing equipment from an Atmore business.

Investigator Bruce Shue said three large pieces of equipment were found missing last week when employees came to open for business at Smith Tractor Company on U.S. 31 North.

“Sometime between the time of closing on June 28 and the time of opening on June 29 the equipment was taken,” Shue said. “Three Z Track mowers were missing when the employees came in for the day.”

Shue said the equipment had been parked in front of the store when employees left.

“The mowers were there when the employees left,” Shue said. “They are large mowers and they are expensive. The total for all three mowers taken comes to about $20,000.”

Shue said owners at Smith Tractor Company stated they would be willing to post a $500 reward if the person or persons responsible for the theft is found and convicted.

“Anyone who has information about these mowers being taken could be in line for the reward,” Shue said. “Information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those reponsible will get someone a $500 reward.”

Shue said Billy Danielson, owner of the Atmore business, reported the missing equipment and had indicated the reward was being offered.

Anyone with information concerning the theft of the mowers or the location of mowers is asked contact the Escambia County Sheriff’s Department at 368-4779 in Atmore or in Bewton at 867-0304 or Smith Tractor Company.