GPS trackers help recover 52K in stolen gear for band touring in Seattle

The electronic duo Kasablanca faced a distressing theft incident in SeaTac, Washington, where $52,000 worth of their equipment was stolen from their parked vehicle. However, their use of GPS trackers proved invaluable, leading police to quickly recover the stolen items at a nearby motel. This theft is part of a concerning trend, marking the third incident involving touring musicians in just two months, with previous victims suffering from complete vehicle thefts. Surveillance footage from the King County Sheriff’s Office documented the swift nature of the crime, capturing a suspect breaking the car window and loading the gear into another vehicle. The recovery of Kasablanca’s equipment enabled them to perform as scheduled at Showbox SoDo, showcasing a rare success story amid ongoing challenges for touring artists in the region.

The police indicated that while other bands had entire U-Hauls stolen, this incident involved targeted theft of specific gear. Authorities are working to apprehend the suspects involved, with warrants already issued for one individual’s arrest. This case serves as a reminder for musicians to invest in protective measures like GPS trackers to safeguard their valuable equipment.