Tacoma family's stolen business van found; owners credit Q13 FOX News viewers

UPDATE:

TACOMA -- A family's stolen Tacoma business van loaded with equipment has been found, and the elated owners credited Q13 FOX News viewers who shared the news and picture on social media with helping police find the vehicle.

Reporter Jamie Tompkins has more to the story in this video report:



EARLIER STORY FROM TUESDAY NIGHT:

TACOMA -- A family-run Tacoma business says they were violated by thieves. And it's not just what they stole, but what it may mean for some employees just before Thanksgiving.

For more than a decade, Mark and Jana Martin have operated Lawn and Landscape Services Inc. from their Tacoma home.

"We've been violated," said Mark Martin. "My wife and I are very good people. We are very honest people."



Tacoma police say someone stole their van early Sunday morning that was parked just outside their house. The van was loaded with hundreds of pieces of equipment.

Their total loss is estimated at $50,000.

The Martins say they have comprehensive coverage, but that doesn't cover theft, so they may only get $5,000 back.

While Mark focuses on maintaining his customer base, Jana is scouring the Internet.

"I was looking for the same make and model, the 2001 Ford Econoline."

The Martins are now being forced to lay off some of their 14 employees just before Thanksgiving.

"I feel bad, I don't ever want to lay anybody off."

At this point in their lives, the Martins thought they would be winding down.

"Thirteen years of buying equipment and building up to where we're at right now and now we're starting over again."

Tacoma police are investigating.

The Martins ask that you share the photo of their stolen van with your friends to help police find the vehicle.