© Courtesy of the Tri-State Railway Historical Society A train horn was stolen from a public display in Morris County, and a $2,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the culprit.
MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — A train horn, described as a historical artifact, that was stolen from a public display in Morris County has prompted a $2,000 reward for information leading to the culprit.
According to Richie King, President of the Tri-State Railway Historical Society, the horn of the Morristown & Erie Railway was stolen while locomotive No. 19 was on public display in Whippany over the Fourth of July weekend.
The horn theft is being investigated as criminal trespass on an active railroad, as well as criminal theft and vandalism of a locomotive, according to the historical society.
“This is a hugely disappointing end to an otherwise great public event,” King said.
According to the Tri-State Railway Historical Society, the thief used a ladder to climb the locomotive’s hood and unbolt the distinctive Nathan K3L horn, leaving traces of evidence that were later turned over to local authorities.
“We have reason to believe the thief is a member of the railfan community, which is why we are offering a reward for any information that leads to its return. The horn is a Nathan K3L, with several distinguishing marks that will be recognizable to us if or when the horn turns up on the market,” King said.
Any person who provides any information that leads to the discovery of the horn and the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator is eligible for a $2000 cash reward.
“The thief is welcome to return the horn anonymously, no questions asked, and we will not press charges. Our primary goal is to get this artifact back home. However, if the culprit is found before it is willfully returned, we will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law. Stealing horns is a federal crime,” King said. “This has been an ongoing issue throughout New Jersey for the past few years. It has happened in Whippany before too.”
Anyone who may have any information is asked to contact Richie King at richie@tristaterail.org or at (973)-939-4993.
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