Classic Car Theft Caught on Video

Glendale - A mint condition 1959 Roman Red Chevy Impala with a white convertible top and a plaid interior is a classic car collector's dream.

Unfortunately, it's also a car thief's dream.

Car Owner:
"This is a very very unique vehicle."

Just hours after the car was delivered to an Azusa man who had purchased it from out of state, he parked the car in a parking lot behind businesses on Brand Boulevard while he attended the Glendale Car Show last Saturday.

Within minutes, two car thieves got to work.

Car Owner:
"These guys were pretty gutsy. They were definitely professionals at what they were doing."

Surveillance tape shows the thieves made at least three attempts to steal the car. The first time, one of them jumps into the driver's seat and fiddles with wires under the dashboard. Then, after waiting for witnesses to leave the area, the other one dives under the car to look for another way to get the car started. Finally, the two brazen thugs pop the hood and hot-wire the car. Within seconds, they're off.

Car Owner:
"The first time i saw the video, it was like a dagger in the heart. Having it less than four hours, having the vehicle completely stolen like that. Just unreal."

The car's owner believes the theft was no accident.

Car Owner:
"I find it very very suspicious ... as if they were tipped off. As if somebody was watching the whole time."

He hopes someone will recognize the two suspects who were caught on surveillance tape as they entered a nearby business.

The owner is offering a $5,000 reward for the return of his car or for information leading to the arrest of the suspects.

Car Owner:
"The number one thing... I want my car back. The unfortunate reality is this car may be sent overseas. These cars are bringing in figures of $150,000."

The vehicle is described as a bright red 1959 Chevy Impala, Tennessee license plate# 091WDZ. It has a white convertible top and a plaid interior.

According to police, both suspects in the video appear to be African American. One is wearing a khaki color cap. The second is wearing a white t-shirt with black/white checkered pants.

If you have any information about the stolen vehicle or the suspects seen in the video, call Glendale police at 818-548-3127 or call the special hotline set up by the stolen car's owner at 909-632-1243.