$25,000 Blade-Style Prosthetic Leg Stolen From Paralympian's Car In San Francisco
SAN FRANCISCO (KPIX 5) -- A Paralympian sprinter's blade-style prosthetic was stolen out of his car in San Francisco's Mission District, and he needs it to compete for next year's games in Rio De Janeiro.
Ranjit Steiner says he knew instantly that the thieves likely stole his laptop, which he had forgotten to take out of his car, but soon realized that his $25,000 prosthetic was taken in the theft.
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"I never thought that someone would steal my running leg. I'm searching under the seats and in every corner hoping it might magically appear," Steiner told KPIX 5.
Steiner competes as a paralympian in track and field. He was hoping to compete in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, but the theft has proven to be a major hurdle, leaving him on the sidelines.
Despite the theft, Steiner is staying optimistic about his situation.
"I can't do my sprint workouts, but I can cross-train, and use my walking leg. I'm limited, but I can at least stay in shape," he said.
A gofundme account started by a friend has already raised over $1,700 to help Steiner replace his custom-made leg.