Cadillac DeVille Disappears in the Night: Hinton, OK, Suffers a Classic Car Heist

STOLEN 1965 Cadillac Deville

On August 18, 2024, the serene town of Hinton, Oklahoma, found itself at the center of classic car theft caper. A classic 1965 Cadillac DeVille, an American automotive legend, was stolen alongside a 2008 Peterbilt service truck from behind a shop at 5304 N Broadway St. This brazen theft occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m., when two vehicles were taken—one of them lifted by a large flatbed tow truck, while the other was driven away. The entire heist was captured on video as both vehicles were seen leaving the area shortly after being stolen.

This theft was reported to Hinton Police Department, who initiated a stolen vehicle report and investigation. But why would a vintage car like the 1965 Cadillac DeVille be targeted?

The 1965 Cadillac DeVille: A Classic That Still Turns Heads

Before we dive into the possible motives behind the theft, let’s take a step back and appreciate the vehicle that was taken. The 1965 Cadillac DeVille holds a special place in American automotive history. Known for its sheer size, comfort, and luxury, the DeVille was one of the top-of-the-line models produced by Cadillac during the 1960s. This was the heyday of the “land yachts,” large, opulent cars that defined an era of extravagance.

The 1965 DeVille featured a powerful 429 cubic inch V8 engine, providing more than enough power to cruise the open road. With its distinctive tailfins, chrome accents, and plush interior, the DeVille was the epitome of mid-century modern automotive design. It was a status symbol, and its appeal has only grown with age, becoming a prized collector’s item for vintage car enthusiasts.

Given its iconic status, it’s no surprise that a vehicle like the 1965 DeVille could attract the attention of criminals. But what makes these classic cars such desirable targets?

Why Do Criminals Steal Vintage Cadillacs?

The theft of a 1965 Cadillac DeVille is not an isolated incident. Vehicles of this era are often targeted for several reasons. Firstly, the car’s high value, even decades after its production, makes it an attractive asset for thieves. The DeVille, with its chrome grille, long lines, and powerful engine, could easily fetch a premium price on the black market—either for resale or for its parts.

Classic cars like the 1965 DeVille are often stolen for one of two primary reasons:

1. Resale Value: These vehicles are highly coveted by collectors. Once stolen, they may be stripped for valuable parts, such as the engine, chrome trim, or even the iconic tailfins. The stolen parts can be sold individually for significant profits.
2. Exporting and Rebranding: Stolen classic cars may be shipped overseas, particularly to markets where vintage American cars are in high demand. In some cases, thieves attempt to alter the car’s identification numbers (VIN) to resell it without raising suspicion.

In this case, it is likely that the DeVille was targeted for its value. Thieves using a flatbed tow truck to make the theft suggests they knew exactly what they were after and came prepared to handle the vehicle with care, indicating a well-organized operation.

National Vehicle Theft Statistics and the Cadillac DeVille

Although the 1965 Cadillac DeVille is not typically found at the top of national vehicle theft statistics, classic cars in general represent a notable portion of vehicle thefts, particularly in areas where car culture and collector interest is high. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), while modern vehicles dominate the theft rankings, older vehicles, especially high-value classics, continue to be stolen with some regularity. The 1965 DeVille, being an emblem of luxury, falls into the category of vehicles that are often sought after by those looking to cash in on a valuable asset.

The Crime Scene: Behind the Shop in Hinton, OK

On the fateful morning of August 18, 2024, two vehicles— a 1965 Cadillac DeVille and a 2008 Peterbilt service truck— were stolen from behind a shop on 5304 N Broadway St. This quiet stretch of road in Hinton, Oklahoma, became the backdrop for a well-executed theft operation. The use of a flatbed tow truck indicates that the thieves were prepared for a smooth getaway, with minimal risk of detection.

The incident was captured on surveillance footage, providing valuable evidence for the Hinton Police Department. The video showed the vehicles being driven off the premises, but unfortunately, the suspects remain unidentified at this time. Local authorities are continuing their investigation into the theft, hoping to recover the stolen vehicles and bring those responsible to justice.

The Growing Problem of Classic Car Theft

While the theft of a 1965 Cadillac DeVille may seem like an isolated incident, it’s part of a broader trend of increasing thefts of classic and vintage cars across the country. Classic car collectors often go to great lengths to protect their prized possessions, installing sophisticated security systems and locking their vehicles in secure garages. Unfortunately, this does not always prevent theft.

As criminal syndicates become more adept at stealing and trafficking vintage cars, the need for enhanced security measures and public awareness grows. If you’re a classic car owner, it’s important to take extra precautions, whether it’s installing GPS tracking devices, using wheel locks, or even investing in a garage with secure entry points.

In conclusion, the theft of this 1965 Cadillac DeVille, serves as a reminder that even the most cherished vehicles are not immune to criminal activity. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the theft to come forward. If you happen to spot a 1965 Cadillac DeVille for sale, whether it’s in a car auction or on a local classified ad, be sure to verify its authenticity and origin—because classic cars like the DeVille are always in demand, but sometimes that comes with a price.