Modesto Man's Mini Parade Car Stolen From His Home
MODESTO (CBS13) - A mini car used to help raise thousands of dollars for Shriners Hospital has been stolen from its elderly Modesto owner.
The mini car spent five years parked safely in the same spot until now.
The tiny set of wheels helps attract donations for Shriners Hospitals for Children.
"I've had people run me down and give me hundred dollar bills and say 'Donate it!'" Wesley Rash said.
That's why it's so hard for the 84-year-old to comprehend why anyone would steal his mini Lizzie.
"I couldn't believe it," he said. "They can't use it. What are they going to do with it?"
At least one thief came to the family home and hauled away the trailer carrying the mini.
"My daughter comes over every day for coffee. She says, 'Dad, your car is gone.' I said 'It is?' I went out there and certainly, it was gone," he said.
The car is valued at more than $3,500. Rash hand-crafted many of the parts. The mini is featured at a dozen parades a year and helps advertise free medical services for children in need.
"The little kids just crawl all over it," he said. "They love it."
Wesley hopes people will be on the lookout if someone tries to sell his prized possession.
"My neighbor looks all the time at e-Bay, craigslist," he said. "He checks out to see if it comes up on that."
