Propane Trucks Found

Two propane delivery trucks were found Wednesday after being stolen from a gas company over the weekend, a theft that raised fears of what could happen if terrorists got hold of the explosive fuel.

The trucks were found outside an abandoned warehouse 2 miles east of Laredo, FBI agent Richard Murray said. Two Laredo city employees noticed the trucks and called police.

Both trucks still contained the full loads of propane, San Antonio FBI agent Patrick Patterson said.

"We're relieved about that," Patterson said.

No arrests were made. Authorities were looking through the trucks for evidence.

The theft had raised fears of what could happen if terrorists were in possession of the propane. One tanker carried about 3,000 gallons; the other held 2,600 gallons.

Police Chief Albert Ortiz said Tuesday his department did not suspect terrorism. But officials said since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, such a possibility cannot be ignored.

Both trucks were taken from a parking lot owned by Ferrell Gas.

The FBI has not said what the motive for the truck thefts was, but earlier, during the search, one spokesman noted that the market for propane in Mexico is strong and the thieves could have been filling an order, mirroring a similar theft about nine months ago.

Mexican police have been notified by U.S. authorities investigating the case.

Also under investigation is the weekend theft of 15 gas canisters from an ambulance supply company. The canisters contained nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide and oxygen.

"We think it is just a coincidence at this point," Ortiz said.

Patterson said the theft of the canisters is unusual, and they could be used for improvised explosive devices.