1948 Panel Truck Stolen, Then Returned to Oklahoma City Antique Mall

A Stolen Iconic Panel Truck Makes a Comeback

A beloved 1948 Ford panel truck, known for its iconic status in the community, has been returned to its owners after being stolen. The vehicle, which has become a symbol of the 23rd Street Antique Mall, was taken from the premises and later recovered thanks to the help of a good Samaritan.

Bill McConnell, owner of the antique mall, described the panel truck as more than just a vehicle. “For years, we’ve had this 1948 Ford panel truck with our name on the side. I make deliveries in it. It’s just really great advertising in it, and everyone knows it,” he said. The truck not only serves as a means of transportation but also as a rolling billboard that draws attention wherever it goes.

The truck belongs to Bill and his brother Denny McConnell, who own the antique mall. Over the years, the vehicle has become a familiar sight around town, even making an appearance in the movie "Regan." Its unique design and prominent branding have made it a local landmark.

When the truck went missing on Friday, the couple immediately sensed something was wrong. “One of our dealers was driving by when he saw the truck pulling out. He thought it was Bill, so he just waved,” Denny said. However, it turned out to be a theft.

“It’s funny that someone would steal something that had so much logo on it. That’s like a rolling billboard. Everywhere you went, people would see it,” Denny added. Despite the high visibility, the truck was taken without anyone realizing it at first.

Customers of the antique store spotted the stolen panel truck and reported it to the police, but no immediate action was taken. The couple remained hopeful, praying that the truck could be returned. “We had prayed about it and told God that we’d love to have it back if possible. If we didn’t get it back, we’d accept that and go on,” Bill said.

That night, around 10 p.m., the police called with surprising news. “They said, ‘Well, your panel truck is back here in the parking lot.’ We said, ‘What?’” Bill recalled. The truck had been returned, thanks to a good Samaritan who saw a post about the theft and spotted the vehicle. He then called 911 and followed the truck back to the antique store, where the thief jumped out and fled.

The McConnells are now hoping to meet the person who helped return their iconic vehicle. “Our main thing is we’d love to have that neighbor whom we don’t know come by so we can thank him personally and get acquainted with him,” Bill said.

While the truck is currently undergoing repairs to fix its ignition, the shop expects it to be back on the road by Wednesday. As for the suspect, the couple claims he falsely stated that he had permission to borrow the truck. They believe this is untrue and are still seeking answers.

Key Details About the Theft and Recovery

• Vehicle: 1948 Ford panel truck
• Owners: Bill and Denny McConnell, owners of 23rd Street Antique Mall
• Theft Date: Friday
• Recovery Time: Around 10 p.m. the same day
• Helped by: A good Samaritan who spotted the truck and contacted authorities
• Thief’s Claim: Falsely stated he had permission to borrow the truck
• Current Status: Undergoing repairs; expected to be operational by Wednesday

The incident highlights the importance of community support and vigilance. The return of the panel truck has brought relief to the McConnells and has sparked renewed interest in the vehicle’s role as a local icon.