Iconic Jersey Devil Statue Stolen From Popular Ocean Co. Diner

WARREN GROVE, NJ — An icon of the Pine Barrens has gone missing.

If you've made your way out to visit Lucille's Luncheonette, a diner tucked away off the beaten path, you've definitely noticed the giant wooden statue of the Jersey Devil himself posing outside the restaurant.

And late Friday night, the Jersey Devil was stolen, according to Lucille's Luncheonette's owners.

"We would like him returned," the owners pleaded on Facebook Saturday morning. "He has great sentimental value not just for us but our guests."

Security camera footage appears to show an SUV pulling a flatbed with a Jeep on it, loading the statue onto the flatbed.

The Jersey Devil was broken in the process, as the owners found pieces of the statue left in the parking lot.

Not all hope is lost, though. The statue's original artist, Joe Wenal of Rocky Mountain Carvers, has already reached out to the owners.

"He was very disturbed to see what happened to his custom creation, and he is going to start working on a new commissioned replacement for us," they said.

The owners say they believe Stafford police will be able to locate the thief and hopefully force them to pay restitution.

"All we ask of our customers/friends etc... is to continue to be a part of our Lucille's Family," the owners said. "Stop by for pies, have a seat at the counter or on the patio, enjoy a laugh with us... and just keep being you."