As word spread about the stolen boots, businesses in Red Bank raised enough money to cover the cost of new boots
SEA BRIGHT -- A volunteer firefighter whose boots were stolen while he was battling a blaze in Red Bank won't have to accept financial donations to replace them.
As mysteriously as the work boots disappeared from the firefighter's truck on Thursday, they reappeared without any explanation Friday, Sea Bright Fire Rescue reported.
"The boots that were stolen from our member yesterday have been anonymously returned a short time ago," Sea Bright Fire and Rescue posted on its Facebook page. "We thank ALL of those that shared this post and helped spread the word."
Fireman's boots stolen while he battles blaze; Shore business group comes to the rescue
The post thanked the organizations that offered donations for a new pair of boots.
"Your support and generosity was above and beyond and we can't extend enough gratitude," the post continued.
The fire department's original Facebook post included a photograph of someone in a blue Volvo pulled up to the firefighter's red pick-up truck at the time of the fire.
The unidentified volunteer firefighter was part of a team working at a house fire on Leonard Street in Red Bank on Thursday afternoon when the boots were stolen from his pick-up truck, the fire department said that night.
As word spread about the incident, the Red Bank Business Alliance within minutes raised enough money to cover the cost of a new pair of boots.
There's no word yet on where or how the stolen boots were returned.
MaryAnn Spoto may be reached at mspoto@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @MaryAnnSpoto. Find NJ.com on Facebook.