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Orlando fire chief's handgun stolen from city-owned vehicle

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando police are investigating the theft of a handgun taken from an unlocked city vehicle that was being used by an Orlando district fire chief.

Police said the gun was stolen in the 55 West parking garage, behind Fire Station 1 in downtown Orlando.

Fire Chief John Miller said Orlando District Fire Chief David Harris left the car and went to work Tuesday.

After leaving work Harris discovered his gun missing. A city-owned digital camera was also taken, according to investigators.

Police said Harris has a permit to carry the weapon, but it is a violation of city policy to have a handgun in any city vehicle unless you're a sworn police officer.

"It's very unusual for a fire department employee to leave a car unlocked. We have a lot of items in our vehicles," said Miller.

Miller said Harris reported the theft immediately and said Harris, a 16-year veteran with no history of problems, is very remorseful.

The chief said he is concerned about a weapon now being on the street and said the department will find out why Harris had the gun in the car.

"I can assure you, we take it very, very seriously and it will be dealt with appropriately," said Miller.

Harris is still on the job and still has access to his city vehicle.