Montclair police are examining two cargo thefts that occurred on August 17 at an Anheuser-Busch distribution center on Brooks Street, according to FOX 11 Los Angeles. The incidents involve an estimated 40,000 pounds of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer with a combined value near $70,000.
The first theft was reported near 10 a.m. A shipment valued at approximately $45,000 and destined for Tucson, Arizona, was collected for transport but never arrived. Roughly one hour later, a second pickup occurred after a purported subcontracting firm presented fraudulent paperwork to obtain about $25,000 worth of Anheuser-Busch and Pabst Blue Ribbon products.
Pabst Blue Ribbon responded publicly on social media. The company posted that 40,000 pounds of beer had been taken and addressed the responsible party directly: "To the thief: we don't fault you for wanting to brag to your friends how much PBR you have, we just wish you obtained it the honorable way."
The brewer set a deadline, stating it was "starting the clock now" and giving the individual 18 days and 44 minutes to return the truck and cargo without questions. A reward was offered for information leading to recovery of the load.
Investigators have noted similarities between the two thefts and are assessing whether they form part of one coordinated scheme. Details on the driver, vehicles, and trucking firm contain inconsistencies that remain under review, while the final location of the cargo is still unknown.
Pabst has asked the public to contact the company via social media with any sightings of the missing truck. Individuals with information on the incidents, vehicles, or cargo are directed to reach Montclair police at 909-621-4771.
This report is based on coverage by FOX 11 Los Angeles: https://www.foxla.com/news/california-police-investigate-pabst-beer-cargo-theft