Five missing BMWs found; one still gone - Suspect in custody - Brief Article

Translog: Journal of Military Transportation Management, July-August, 2001

five of six missing late-model BMW motor cars that were part of a Military Traffic Management Command cargo have been recovered.

The five luxury vehicles belonging to Department of Defense service members were found in North Charleston, S.C.--not far from the Port of Charleston, where they had been reported missing.

The 2001 BMW vehicles were found within a few days of the incident by local law enforcement agencies, said Bill Antonelli, Vice President, American Auto Logistics, Inc.

Police have arrested a suspect, said Antonelli.

"When apprehended, the suspect was found to have ignition keys for all six stolen cars," said Antonelli. "The suspect is reportedly cooperating with the Charleston Police and it is expected that the remaining car will be recovered shortly, as well."

The vehicles suffered some minor damage, said Antonelli.

"American Auto Logistics has been working with the owners to resolve any claims for damage to the vehicles as rapidly as possible to minimize the inconvenience to owners," said Antonelli.

The six vehicles were originally reported missing June 13. They were delivered June 9 to the Port of Charleston from Europe by the Tanabata, operated by American Roll-on Roll-off Carriers, of Montvale, N.J.

The vehicles were being moved from Europe on behalf of American Auto Logistics, Inc., of Monroe, N.Y., the prime contractor of MTMC's Global Privately Owned Contract.

The firm moves an average of 75,000 privately owned vehicles a year.

Vehicle owners have been notified of the incident by the Charleston Vehicle Processing Center, which was awaiting delivery of the vehicles.

The six owners include three soldiers, two airmen and a sailor. They ranged in rank from an Army major to a Navy petty officer second class.

MTMC has notified the Army, Air Force and Navy claims offices of the incident.