In Atlantic City, New Jersey, local authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with the theft of two priceless musical instruments belonging to members of the iconic rock band, Heart. The theft took place last weekend, prompting police investigations.
The Atlantic City police department revealed that the breakthrough in the case came through surveillance footage, which identified a 57-year-old man from Pleasantville. Footage captured him traversing various parts of the city attempting to sell the stolen instruments, ultimately succeeding in selling one instrument, while the whereabouts of the other remains unknown, police disclosed. The individual is facing charges of burglary and theft.
The theft occurred as the band prepared to launch their “An Evening With Heart” tour at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City on Saturday. The instruments were part of the band’s equipment, which had been set up at the venue the day before the tour was set to begin. Among the stolen items were a one-of-a-kind purple sparkle baritone Telecaster guitar with a hand-painted headstock crafted for member Nancy Wilson, and a vintage 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin, beloved by musician Paul Moak for over a quarter-century.
“These instruments aren’t mere tools; they’re an extension of our creative spirit,” expressed Nancy Wilson in a heartfelt statement released by the band. The statement also promised a reward for any information leading to the recovery of the items. She further appealed for the safe return of the instruments, emphasizing their incalculable value.
Heart, a band fronted by sisters Nancy and Ann Wilson, has been captivating audiences since the 1970s with hits such as “Magic Man,” “Crazy on You,” and “Alone.” The accomplished musicians were recently recognized with a lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy in 2023, cementing their place in rock history.