Colton police recover $54,000 in stolen Hot Wheels cars after train heist

Colton police recovered 350 boxes of Hot Wheels cars valued at about $54,000 that were stolen in a train heist, CBS News Los Angeles reported. The recovery happened after a 911 call alerted officers to a black pickup truck loading several boxes near a cul-de-sac by train tracks.

An officer was staking out under a nearby bridge when the suspect drove away, leading to his arrest on charges including burglary, possession of stolen property, and grand theft, according to CBS News Los Angeles. The suspect was booked into the West Valley Detention Center.

Residents near Maple Street, close to the tracks, expressed concern about frequent train thefts in the area but were reluctant to speak on camera, CBS News Los Angeles noted. This incident is part of a series of train-related thefts in the Inland Empire region.

Colton police credited the early 911 call for enabling a swift response and arrest. Jillian Nunez from Colton PD called the arrest significant given the scale of the theft. KTLA 5 also reported on the tip that led police to the stolen Hot Wheels cars.

This case highlights ongoing issues with train thefts in the area, with previous incidents including high-speed chases and escapes, KTLA 5 added.