OAKLAND, CA – A rare and valuable classic car, a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 RS, was stolen in broad daylight on May 17, 2025, from the customer parking lot at Oakland Volkswagen, located at 2740 Broadway.
The vehicle, known for its performance capabilities (Z/28) and distinctive appearance package (RS), is a highly sought-after model in the classic car community. The Camaro, painted blue with a white stripe. Purchased in December 2024, the car was in “very nice condition” and had a recently updated carburetor and a brand-new motor installed about a year prior to the theft. Its license plate is YBG116, and its VIN is recorded as 12437L511190.
According to the vehicle’s owner, he parked the car in the customer lot behind the building around 8:50 AM on the day of the theft.. The owner went to retrieve the Camaro at approximately 10:20 AM, only to find it missing.
Security footage from the dealership captured the theft. The video shows a man in a white T-shirt and white hat entering the lot, hopping over the fence, and driving off in the Camaro. The suspect turned onto 27th Street and then onto Broadway. A detailer at the dealership noticed someone in the car just before the theft, but mistakenly thought the individual was a coworker taking the vehicle for a short drive.
The theft was immediately reported to the Oakland Police Department, and a police report was filed under Report # 25-021677. The vehicle was locked at the time of the incident, and there were no signs of forced entry or broken glass, indicating the car was likely driven away without resistance.
Why Classic Camaros Are Targets of Theft
Vehicles like the 1969 Camaro Z/28 RS are often stolen due to their high value among car collectors and their desirability for resale. Classic cars, particularly models with limited editions or performance upgrades, are prime targets for thieves due to their ability to command high prices in both the domestic and international markets. Thieves may either dismantle the vehicle for parts or attempt to re-register it with a different VIN, making it harder to trace.
If you have any information about the theft or have seen the vehicle, please contact Hinch Investigations, an investigative company specializing in vehicle theft. To be eligible for a reward, tips must be submitted through Stolen 911 at 408-461-7714. Please note that Stolen 911 cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information, and stolen vehicles must be confirmed by law enforcement agencies. Rewards are the responsibility of the owner or insurance company.
