Bear Statue Nabbed From Learning Center

Family Circle Learning Center off Benson Drive is offering a $100 reward for information leading to the recovery of a beloved carved wooden bear.

The welcoming character formerly stood outside the center's main entrance at 10717 Southeast 172nd Street. 

The bear was last seen on December 23rd at 9 p.m as employees left for the evening. The next moring, the bear was gone.

The four-foot tall statue is solid wood and weighs 200 pounds. At the time of the theft, the bear sported a Santa hat.

The bear was previously secured with metal bolts; however, the thieves appeared to have used a saw to cut through the bolts. Both children and families at the center were disheartened to learn of the missing bear and could not believe something like this could happen.  

Anyone with information may contact the office at (425) 228-9111 or the Renton Police Department reference case number 12-13445 at (425) 430-7500.