Philadelphia police are investigating a large cargo theft that took place early Tuesday morning. A truck driver reported that, while he was sleeping at his truck’s parking spot, several men forced open the back of his tractor‑trailer and began removing cases of frozen snow crab.
Details of the heist
The driver, who wishes to remain unnamed, called 911 at approximately 4 a.m. He said he saw six men loading the stolen cases into a gray Ford F‑150 and a gray Dodge Caravan, among other vehicles. When the driver stepped out to confront the suspects, one of the thieves chased him down the street before the group fled in multiple vehicles.
According to police, the thieves made off with two pallets of crab legs. Each pallet held 50 boxes, and each box weighed about 30 pounds, bringing the total weight of the stolen seafood to roughly 3,000 pounds.
Police response
Southwest Detectives are leading the investigation. Officers are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and are asking anyone who saw the suspects or the vehicles involved to contact the Philadelphia Police Department’s tip line.
Investigators have not released descriptions of the suspects beyond the number of individuals involved. They are also seeking information about the pickup truck and the other vehicles used in the getaway.
Impact on the local seafood market
The stolen crab legs were destined for local restaurants and seafood distributors. While the loss represents a significant financial hit for the businesses that ordered the product, officials say the market is unlikely to feel a long‑term shortage because other suppliers can fill the gap.
Philadelphia’s waterfront and restaurant community rely heavily on fresh and frozen seafood, and incidents like this highlight the need for better security measures at loading docks and parking areas.
How you can help
If you have any information about the theft, including sightings of the gray Ford F‑150, the gray Dodge Caravan, or any other vehicles matching the description, please call the Philadelphia Police Department at 215‑686‑5000 or submit a tip online.
Police ask the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity near commercial loading zones, especially during early‑morning hours when crews are often working alone.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
