In a remarkable turn of events, Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies have recovered a stolen vintage car belonging to actor Jerry O'Connell, returning it to the star before he even realised it was missing from his property.
Traffic Stop Leads to Unexpected Discovery
The unusual case unfolded on January 13 when deputies from the Lost Hills sheriff's department conducted a routine traffic stop on Pacific Coast Highway. Officers pulled over a homeless man who was reportedly speeding in a distinctive 1979 Cadillac, a vehicle that immediately raised suspicions among law enforcement personnel.
During the stop, the driver failed to provide deputies with essential documentation including a valid driver's licence, vehicle registration, or proof of insurance. When questioned about the vehicle's ownership, the man claimed it belonged to a family member but could not provide any supporting details or evidence to substantiate his story.
Investigation Reveals Celebrity Connection
Authorities conducted a thorough investigation into the vehicle's registration, which revealed the classic car was legally registered to Jerry O'Connell, the American actor best known for his role in Scream 2 and numerous television appearances. Further inquiries determined that the Cadillac had been stolen from O'Connell's Calabasas home in the west San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles.
The theft occurred while O'Connell and his wife, actress Rebecca Romijn, were away from their property, leaving the valuable vintage vehicle vulnerable to potential thieves. The classic automobile, a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts alike, had been taken without any immediate signs of forced entry or disturbance at the property.
Actor's Surprised Response
Remarkably, O'Connell remained completely unaware that his vehicle had been stolen until law enforcement contacted him to arrange its return. The 51-year-old actor expressed both surprise and gratitude upon learning about the incident and the successful recovery of his property.
Taking to Instagram to share his reaction, O'Connell wrote: "Very grateful for @lasd_lhs. All this while Gavin Newsom was at DAVOS. JK. I left my keys in [the] center console. MY BAD. This one is on me. Again, THANK YOU LOST HILLS SHERIFFS!!!" His humorous acknowledgement of leaving the keys in the vehicle demonstrated both his appreciation for the police work and his own responsibility in the security lapse.
Successful Recovery and Return
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department confirmed to media outlets including NBC4 that the vintage Cadillac has since been safely returned to its rightful owner. The recovery represents a notable success for local law enforcement in combating vehicle theft, particularly involving distinctive or valuable automobiles that might otherwise prove difficult to trace.
While the investigation into the theft continues, authorities have highlighted the importance of proper vehicle security measures, even for residents of relatively secure areas like Calabasas. The incident serves as a reminder that vehicle theft can occur in any neighbourhood, particularly when owners are away from their properties for extended periods.
The homeless man found driving the vehicle now faces potential charges related to the unauthorised use of the automobile, though specific charges have not yet been formally announced by prosecutors. The case continues to develop as investigators work to determine exactly how the theft occurred and whether additional individuals were involved in taking the distinctive classic car.
