Montclair Police Probe $70K Beer Heist as Pabst Laughs at Thieves

Key points

• Two cargo thefts occurred at an Anheuser-Busch facility in Montclair, California, on August 17, 2026.
• The first theft involved a $45,000 shipment destined for Tucson, Arizona, which failed to arrive at its destination.
• The second theft, occurring one hour later, involved $25,000 in beer, including Pabst Blue Ribbon, picked up by a subcontractor using fake paperwork.
• Pabst Brewing Company posted on Instagram, offering a reward and setting an 18-day deadline for the return of the 40,000 pounds of beer.
• Montclair Police are investigating whether the two incidents were part of a single fraudulent operation, noting discrepancies in driver and vehicle information.

Background

This incident follows a pattern of high-value cargo thefts in the US supply chain. Previous coverage noted that Pabst initially claimed a truck was stolen, later clarifying that only the beer was taken. The company's marketing team has used humor to engage the public, a strategy that contrasts with the serious nature of the fraud. The thefts highlight vulnerabilities in freight verification processes, where fraudulent documents can bypass standard security checks at distribution centers.

How outlets are covering it

Outlets differ in their emphasis on the response. The Los Angeles Times highlighted the lack of initial media attention and the playful tone of Pabst's social media posts, noting that some viewers may have mistaken the plea for a marketing stunt. BBC focused on the reward offer and the specific details of the fraudulent documentation used. FreightWaves emphasized the operational aspect, noting that police identified the same broker involved in both incidents and that the investigation remains active. All sources agree on the total value of $70,000 and the 40,000-pound weight of the stolen beer, though some outlets initially reported only the $25,000 figure before police updated the total.

Why it matters

This case underscores the financial and logistical risks of cargo theft in the US. The use of fraudulent documents to bypass distribution center security poses a significant threat to supply chain integrity. The public response to Pabst's humorous campaign may increase awareness of such crimes, but the lack of arrests or recovered goods suggests that traditional investigative methods are still required to resolve these complex frauds.

What to watch

Montclair Police are continuing their investigation into the two thefts, looking for connections between the incidents and the individuals involved. Pabst Brewing Company is monitoring social media for tips and has not yet confirmed the recovery of the beer. The company's 18-day deadline for the return of the beer is approaching, and the outcome will determine whether the reward is paid or if the case remains unsolved.