Gem thief returns stolen ashes to victim

UNIVERSITY PLACE, Wash. -- A thief made off with plenty of loot when he burglarized a car April 9 in University Place. But among the things the theif took, he or she had the good sense to send arguably the most precious possession back to the victim.

Tacoma Police reported that a car prowler took 3,000 rare gemstones, two gold rings, a gold bracelet, 30 silver rings and some electronics from a car parked at the Chambers Bay Golf Course in University Place. The thief also stole a green Cabelas suitcase that contained the victim's son's ashes.

Nearly a week after the theft, the ashes were anonymously mailed back to the victim in a package. The other items were not returned, police said.

Anyone with information on the theft is should call Tacoma-Pierce County Crime Stoppers at (253) 591-5959.