2.7-ton bell stolen from San Francisco cathedral
October 26, 2011
A massive bell—viewed as a historic artifact because it had survived earthquake and fire for over a century--has been stolen from St. Mary’s cathedral in San Francisco.
The 5,330-pound bell had been placed in the cathedral in 1889. After the cathedral was destroyed by fire, the bell was placed on a platform outside the new cathedral building. Parishioners reported that it was missing on October 23; it is not clear when it was taken.
Police theorize that the bell was taken for the value of its metal. The thieves probably used a crane to hoist the bell onto a waiting truck, they suggest.
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Further information:
- St. Mary's Cathedral bell stolen in S.F. (San Franisco Chronicle)
- 2-ton historic bell stolen from St. Mary’s Cathedral (Catholic San Francisco)
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