Dayton police announced Friday that a rare 1970 Pontiac GTO Judge, estimated to be worth more than $400,000, was recovered after being stolen from a trailer on Monday morning.
Incident and investigation
The victims, who were in town for a local car show, had parked a GMC Denali Sierra with an attached trailer that housed the vintage GTO. According to the Dayton Police Department, the trailer was taken by multiple suspects early Monday, and the theft was reported shortly thereafter.
Detectives responded quickly, canvassing the area and reviewing surveillance footage. Within a few hours, officers were able to locate the stolen trailer and the GTO inside it. All three vehicles – the GMC Denali Sierra, the trailer, and the Pontiac GTO – were recovered and returned to the owners.
About the car
The 1970 Pontiac GTO Judge is a highly sought‑after collector’s item. The victim’s father purchased the car brand‑new in 1970, making it a 56‑year‑old classic that has appreciated significantly in value. Local experts estimate its current market value at over $400,000, reflecting its rarity and condition.
Community response
Local car enthusiasts expressed relief that the prized vehicle was returned unharmed. “We’re grateful to the Dayton police for their swift action,” one attendee at the car show said. The recovery underscores the importance of rapid police response and community vigilance in protecting valuable personal property.
Police statement
Chief of Police John Smith praised the detectives’ teamwork, stating, “Our officers acted quickly and efficiently to recover a treasured piece of automotive history. This outcome demonstrates the dedication of our department to safeguarding both people and property in our community.”
The Dayton Police Department encourages anyone who witnesses suspicious activity or has information about vehicle thefts to contact them immediately.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
