In the quiet streets of San Pedro, a holiday season that is all about giving turned into a small crime story when a family’s prized Christmas ornament was taken from their porch.
The Theft
Home‑surveillance footage sent to KTLA by a Nexstar viewer shows a man ascending the front of a San Pedro home and lifting a large Christmas ornament decoration. The video’s timestamp indicates the incident occurred just after 1 a.m. Friday morning.
The Video
The clip, which is already available to the public, captures the thief’s movements in clear detail. The viewer, who identified themselves as a KTLA audience member, reported the footage directly to the network. They noted that the family’s parents were not upset but simply wanted their ornament back.
The Home
The house involved in the incident sits near the intersection of Weymouth and Harbor View avenues, not far from Averill Park. In addition to the stolen ornament, the property was adorned with several large inflatable Christmas decorations, a visual reminder of the holiday spirit that the family was hoping to celebrate.
The Family’s Reaction
When asked about the theft, the parents expressed a desire for the return of their decoration rather than a demand for punishment. The viewer told Nexstar’s KTLA, “The ornament is important to them and they just want it back.”
The family’s reaction was tempered by a hint of humor: they referred to the thief as a “grinch.” This nickname reflects the disappointment of losing a cherished holiday item while also acknowledging the thief’s mischief.
Community Response
Neighbors and local residents who learned of the incident via the KTLA report shared the footage and expressed support for the family’s request. Some community members offered to keep an eye on the area during the holiday season to prevent further incidents.
Law Enforcement
No police report has been filed as of the time of writing. The family’s choice to seek a return of the ornament rather than pursue legal action suggests a preference for a swift resolution.
Key Takeaways
- A large Christmas ornament was taken from a San Pedro home just after 1 a.m. Friday.
- The incident was captured on home surveillance and shared with KTLA.
- The family’s parents are not angry; they simply want the ornament returned.
- The thief was called a “grinch” by the family, reflecting disappointment and a touch of humor.
- The home is located near Weymouth and Harbor View avenues, close to Averill Park.
The incident serves as a reminder that even in a season focused on generosity, small thefts can disrupt the holiday mood. The family’s calm request for the return of their ornament highlights a desire for resolution without escalation.
Closing
As the holiday season continues, this story underscores the importance of community vigilance and the value families place on the small items that bring them joy. The hope is that the ornament will be returned soon, allowing the family to enjoy the rest of the festivities without this lingering interruption.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
