Los Angeles, CA – A beloved 50-pound fiberglass dinosaur named Claire was recently stolen from a Brentwood Sinclair gas station, only to be returned days later with an unexpected apology.
The four-foot-tall prehistoric mascot’s theft captured widespread attention, including that of local residents and celebrities. Its unexpected return has sparked conversations about community values and respect for local landmarks.
The Tale of Claire: From Theft to Return
Claire, the Sinclair dinosaur, was taken last week from the San Vicente Boulevard gas station in the Brentwood neighborhood. Surveillance footage showed a person using power tools to detach Claire from the station, then loading her into a white pickup truck and driving away.
However, the story took a surprising turn when Claire was returned early Monday morning, wrapped in fabric and accompanied by a handwritten note reading, “I’m sorry for stealing. Please don’t charge me!”
A gas station clerk told NBC Los Angeles that Claire was likely returned sometime after midnight when the business was closed. Later security camera footage confirmed the same white pickup truck pulling up and unloading the dinosaur.
Community and Celebrity Reactions Spotlight the Incident
- The disappearance of Claire drew notable attention, including a social media reaction from actress Jamie Lee Curtis.
- On Instagram, Curtis expressed her disbelief, saying:
“REALLY! Hey, you with your fancy truck, really? You need to steal the dinosaur from in front of the Sinclair gas station? Really? Not cool dude. Not cool!”
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- Fans of Claire brought flowers and other tributes to the gas station in support.
- The dinosaur has been a symbol of Sinclair’s advertising since the 1930s, with the Apatosaurus emerging as the company’s most recognized mascot.
Background and Significance of Claire
The Sinclair dinosaur dates back nearly a century as a marketing icon. As NBC News reported, various dinosaurs were featured in early promotions before the Apatosaurus, Claire’s species, became the enduring mascot.
Claire’s theft and return highlight the mascot’s local cultural significance and the community’s strong emotional connection to the simple symbol.
What’s Next for Claire and the Brentwood Community?
While no arrests have been reported, the incident serves as a reminder to protect community landmarks and respect public property. The apology note suggests some remorse, but local authorities will likely continue to investigate.
- Key facts about Claire’s theft and return:
- Stolen using power tools and loaded into a pickup truck
- Returned wrapped and with an apology note
- High-profile community and celebrity reactions
- Represents a longstanding Sinclair advertising tradition
What do you think about this discovery? Share your thoughts in the comments below!