Pabst Blue Ribbon Sets 18-Day Deadline for Stolen 40,000-Pound Beer Haul

Thieves stole roughly 40,000 pounds of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer from an Anheuser-Busch distribution center in Montclair, California, on August 17 in what police say may be one of the largest beer heists ever. The combined value of two separate thefts that day totaled $70,000. Pabst has given the thieves exactly 18 days and 44 minutes to return the cargo with no questions asked, offering an undisclosed reward for information leading to recovery.

Two thefts in one hour at the same warehouse

Montclair Police are investigating two cargo thefts at the Anheuser-Busch distribution center on August 17. The first incident occurred around 10 a.m. when a shipment worth $45,000 headed for Tucson, Arizona, was picked up for delivery but never arrived. One hour later, a second theft occurred when a purported subcontracting company used fraudulent documents to pick up approximately $25,000 worth of Pabst and Old Milwaukee beer. Investigators believe the two incidents may be connected as part of a single operation.

What was stolen and how much it’s worth

The stolen cargo included roughly 40,000 pounds of beer, equivalent to more than 33,000 cans of Pabst Blue Ribbon and about 200 cases of Old Milwaukee Non-Alcoholic beer, according to police reports and company statements. The total value of both thefts is estimated at $70,000. Paul Meyers, senior director of integrated marketing operations for Pabst, said the truck was headed for delivery in San Diego when it was taken by someone impersonating an authorized pickup driver.

Pabst’s unusual countdown and public appeal

Pabst announced on Instagram that thieves have exactly 18 days and 44 minutes to return the beer with no questions asked. The company later clarified the deadline may reference 1844, the year Pabst was founded. In social media posts, Pabst wrote: “To the thief: we don’t fault you for wanting to brag to your friends how much PBR you have, we just wish you obtained it the honorable way.” The company is offering a reward for information leading to recovery, though the amount has not been disclosed. Pabst later posted: “Beer is getting warmer, trail is getting colder. Clock’s still ticking.”

Police investigation and public help sought

Montclair Police Department is leading the investigation and asking the public for assistance. Anyone with information about the stolen cargo, vehicles, drivers, or delivery companies involved is encouraged to contact Montclair Police at (909) 621-4771. Pabst has asked people who spot the truck to take photos and tag the company on social media or send direct messages with details about its location. A Pabst spokesperson said the company is working with local authorities and is grateful for their efforts.

Final Thoughts

The August 17 thefts represent one of the largest beer heists on record. Pabst’s lighthearted social media campaign masks a serious investigation into what police suspect may be an organized cargo theft operation. The 18-day deadline expires around September 14.

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The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.