A Spokane carpenter’s tools were stolen while remodeling a home for recovering addicts

SPOKANE, Wash. — Tools worth thousands of dollars were stolen from a Spokane carpenter’s job site early Sunday morning.

“So last night, I got a call from Ed, who’s a homeowner of the property that we’re working on,” said Christopher Matthews. “He said, well, unfortunately, everything’s gone.”

Matthews, a carpenter with the Reclaim Project, was devastated to find that his tools, including air compressors, nail guns, and batteries, were stolen early Sunday morning from his job site.

“You can go back to the old school hammer and nails, but production wise that’s, you know, not really applicable,” said Matthews.

Matthews was working on a remodel with homeowner Edward Bruya, turning a house into affordable housing for individuals transitioning from prison.

“It’s kind of a project for people, you know, relocating from prison and kind of getting back on their feet,” said Matthews.

Matthews, a recovering alcoholic, describes the theft as “super violating,” emphasizing that despite his past struggles, he never resorted to stealing.

“It’s heart wrenching, honestly,” said Matthews.

This setback now means he must replace the tools he needs to continue working, while also providing for his five children this holiday season.

The Spokane Police Department is investigating the incident.

In the meantime, Matthews presses forward with his work, aiming to provide affordable housing for those in need.

“You know, as much as I wanted to go home, curl up in a ball and stay hidden in my room, you know, and sulk in my sorrow, I had to get up and find that that strength to show up to work and just continue going with the flow,” said Matthews.

A GoFundMe has been set up for Christopher Matthews. To view the webpage, click here.

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