Heart Patient's Belonging Stolen From Car While At Hospital

Criminals target an Oklahoma family at its lowest moment.

The wife has been waiting for a heart transplant. Days after she finally had surgery in Oklahoma City, thieves break into their vehicle at Integris Baptist Medical Center.

Tommy Small cannot believe someone was ruthless enough to victimize his family during a time like this.

"It was kind of a, a shock.  You just feel violated," explained Small.

The Smalls live in Salina, Okla., which is an hour east of Tulsa. A crook broke into Tommy's suburban on Wednesday morning and stole his wife's belongings that she brought for the extended stay.

Gina Small is currently sedated while doctors wait to close her chest up due to some complications.

"Anybody going to a hospital, they're in a bad time anyway and then to come and tear someone's truck up or try to steal it from them, it's just wrong," said Small.

The thief stole Gina's clothing, makeup bag, medicine bag and other personal items. The hospital wants the suspect caught and released surveillance photos showing the crime.

"This is basically a prime target for somebody who is going to come in and try to burglarize a vehicle, obviously lots of vehicles to choose from," explained Oklahoma City Police Sgt. Jennifer Wardlow.

The burglar did about $1,000 in damage to Small's vehicle by ripping out the steering column wires and breaking off the gear shift.

"She's the main thing right now. This can be replaced or can be taken care of, but she can't," Small said.

Gina Small was on the transplant list for eight months when she finally got the call and Tommy Small said they will lean on their faith again to get through this setback.

Tommy Small is hoping to get his suburban fixed soon because Gina Small will need to be in Oklahoma City for another three months for her recovery.

Call Oklahoma City Police at (405) 235-7300 if you recognize the suspect.