SHERMAN OAKS—On May 4 around 5:00 a.m., three men went on a crime spree stealing a tricycle that was custom made for a special needs teen at a Sherman Oaks apartment complex. Surveillance footage shows the three men stealing a tool box from one of the tenants trucks, which was used to unlatch a tricycle.
The tricycle belonged to Brian, a 15-year old teen who is diagnosed with down syndrome. Brian’s mother, Serena, told Fox 11 news, “When looking at it, you know it’s a special needs bike.”
The tricycle has a reported value of $1400 and it was donated to the family. Serena said she would never be able to afford something of that value with three special needs children.
The Los Angeles Police Department is currently investigating the case. “For someone to cut off the locks and take that tricycle that is no value to them, but extreme value to Brian is unsettling,” Lt. Jim Gavin of the LAPD told Fox 11. He added that the bike was bright red and hopes it is recognized by someone.
People took to Facebook to express concerns for the family. On a post with 1000+ comments, donations are being offered to assist Brian in getting a new tricycle.
No GoFundMe page has been setup for the family. Anyone with any information on the theft is asked to contact the LAPD.
