Stolen Gas Station Dinosaur Returned with Apology Note; Replacement Statue Later Unveiled

BRENTWOOD, CA — A quirky saga involving a local gas station's mascot has captured the hearts and attention of Brentwood residents, spanning from an autumn theft to a spring celebration.

The story began in early October 2025 when thieves managed to steal a large, beloved decorative dinosaur statue from a local gas station. The theft left regular customers and staff disappointed, but the story took a surprising turn just days later on October 6, 2025.

Returned with a Pleading Apology

The stolen dinosaur was suddenly returned to the gas station. Accompanying the mascot was a handwritten note from the remorseful culprits, which read: "Please don't press charges."

While the business owners were relieved to see the return, the relief was short-lived. The original statue had suffered severe physical damage during the theft attempt and its subsequent transit, making it structurally unsound and beyond repair.

A Fresh Beginning

Refusing to let the gas station lose its landmark, the owners commissioned a brand-new custom dinosaur statue. On March 15, 2026, the community gathered as the new statue was officially unveiled, restoring the playful landmark to its rightful spot at the pumps.