PITTSBURGH, Pa. (WKBN)- Thousands of Pittsburgh Penguins bobbleheads were stolen before they could be given away to fans, the team announced.
The Penguins announced on social media that the shipment carrying the Jaromir Jagr bobbleheads for Thursday's game against the San Jose Sharks had been stolen after its arrival in California.
The team said that the bobbleheads will be distributed to fans at a later date.
The Penguins learned from authorities that they were victims of cargo theft. The Penguins said that they worked with the manufacturer and transportation companies to alert the appropriate state and federal authorities as they are currently working to locate the bobbleheads. The team said that this is an open investigation and that no further comment will be made.
Penguins President of Business Operations Kevin Acklin released a statement:
We were shocked to be a victim of cargo theft, and we are working closely with local and federal authorities on the investigation. While this unfortunate incident adds to the legend of Jaromir Jagr, who will be in attendance as our guest at tonight’s game, we look forward to resolving this theft and delivering the prized Jagr bobbleheads to their rightful homes, with our fans."
Kevin Acklin- Pittsburgh Penguins President of Business Operations
The team said that fans in attendance will receive a one-time scannable bar code that will be used to pick up the bobblehead at a later date. Location and dates for pickup will be announced at a later time once the items are safely located or new bobbleheads are produced and available.
Jaromir Jagr had his #68 retired by the Penguins on February 18.