Bike-riding bandit wanted for akron church theft

Bike-riding bandit wanted for Akron church theft

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January 21, 2026
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Bicycle-pushing suspect wanted for church guitar theft in Akron

AKRON, OH — Akron police are asking for the public’s help identifying a suspect who entered a church in the Firestone Park neighborhood and stole a guitar along with other items after Sunday services on January 18.

According to investigators, the suspect entered the church after congregants had left and took a guitar in a backpack-style carry case. A check was also inside one of the case’s pockets. Surveillance footage showed the suspect arriving and leaving the scene while pushing a bicycle.

The Akron Police Department is seeking assistance to identify the suspect, listed under case number #26-100206. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective C. Artis at 330-375-2600 or 330-375-2TIP. Anonymous tips can also be shared through the Summit County Crimestoppers at 330-434-COPS or by texting TIPSCO to 274637.

Citizens can also report information via the Akron PD mobile app or online through www.AkronCops.org. Authorities caution the public not to approach the suspect and to call 911 if seen.

Key Points
• Akron police say a suspect entered a Firestone Park church and stole a guitar and check after services
• The suspect arrived and left the scene pushing a bicycle
• Authorities are asking for tips and warn the public not to approach the suspect

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News