CAUGHT ON CAMERA: Multiple houses targeted during inflatable Santa heist
Dec 14, 2024
CARLSBAD, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) -- It was a rude awakening for several households on Highland Drive in Carlsbad Saturday after discovering that their giant inflatable Santas had been stolen from their front yards.
A local resident and victim of the holiday-inspired burglary told FOX 5/KUSI that multiple houses were hit, resulting in the loss of what they called "their famous Highland Santas." The enormous inflatables stand about 20 feet tall and line the sidewalks in the North County neighborhood. The gangly décor also illuminates at night.
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Multiple houses reportedly caught the suspected thief on camera, with video showing a suspicious person arriving in what appears to be a dark-colored truck. That individual could be seen cautiously lurking along the street before approaching the front of a Carlsbad home to presumably snatch one of the towering Santas.
Giant Santas are seen on Highland Drive in Carlsbad. (Courtesy of Carlsbad resident)
According to the Carlsbad resident, multiple police reports have been made reporting the holiday heist. FOX 5/KUSI reached out to the Carlsbad Police Department for comment on the matter, with an official stating that at least "three Santa victims" have come forward so far. Authorities have yet to provide additional details regarding the trail of events.
As for the "famous Highland Santas," the households on the street are hoping to keep the holiday spirit alive despite the misfortune. One of the neighbors is reportedly making a run to Orange County for some replacement inflatables to bring back to the local community.
The giant inflatables sell for about $200, making the total loss around $600. An investigation remains ongoing.
This is a developing story. Please check back for more information.