The Troy Police Department is calling on the public for assistance after a significant theft that struck the heart of a community effort. Nearly $60,000 worth of specialized riding wheelchairs were reported stolen from The Agape Project, a Metro Detroit nonprofit that facilitates racing events for individuals with disabilities. According to The Detroit News, Sgt. John Julian revealed that the stolen trailer, last seen on Friday and discovered missing on Monday, contained nine wheelchairs valued at about $6,500 each.
The theft not only jeopardizes the organization's upcoming events but also potentially halts its entire 2025 racing season. Kim Duda, the secretary of The Agape Project, shared her relatives' recent involvement in a race and their anticipation for future events, now cast into uncertainty. In an emotional appeal shared on Facebook and reported by ClickOnDetroit, Duda highlighted the essential nature of these custom-built chairs, which may not be reclaimed in time to salvage the season.
Phil Smith, the organization's president, stated the disruption of their racing season as police continue their investigations. Smith underscored the profound impact these events have on participants, families, and the entire community. "If you ever get an opportunity to watch this go on and see the kids smiling, it's fantastic," Smith told WXYZ. The specialized Hoyt racing wheelchairs, each costing approximately $6,000, are not easily replaceable, posing a substantial barrier to the nonprofit's immediate future.
