Salvation Army of Amarillo is asking public for help locating stolen truck

The Salvation Army of Amarillo had one of its vehicles stolen sometime in the early morning hours Thursday. The vehicle was located at the Salvation Army's vehicle storage area behind its Family Store.

According to the New Coral Officer for the Amarillo Salvation Army, Major Tex Ellis, the time frame for the theft is determined to be some time after closing Wednesday at 5 p.m., and opening Thursday at 10 a.m.

In addition to stealing the 26-foot-truck, the thieves "tore off" one of the property's gates to move the truck from its locked storage area.

"We lost the vehicle obviously, but we also have damage to worry about as well. ... We filed a report with APD as soon as we realized, and we hope we find it. We just don't know at this point," Ellis said.

According to the Major, the vehicle assists the nonprofit with the transporting of materials for its Family Thrift Store such as furniture, as well as picking up of food donations that go to its pantry and shelter kitchen, along with miscellaneous donations throughout the year.

"At Christmas time, that truck is really crucial for us; it picks up toys and gifts and supports our food drives. There are a lot of things during the holiday season that we rely on with that truck and really all throughout the year. We use it everyday, so we are missing it right now," Ellis said.

According to the new major, the truck replacement would cost an estimate of $60,000. The Salvation Army is currently encouraging the public to notify the Amarillo Police Department with any information on the whereabouts of the vehicle and is accepting donations to benefit the purchase of a new truck, so that they can get back to normal as soon as possible.

Anyone who has information on this robbery can call Crimestoppers at 806-374-4400.Tips can also be made online at www.amapolice.org or download the P3 tips app and make a tip there.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Salvation Army of Amarillo asks public for help with stolen truck