In a disheartening turn of events, chef Jason Lewis, owner of the mobile Smokeland Barbecue business, has faced a significant setback just over two months after launching his venture. On November 30th, he purchased a Chevy S-10 pickup to serve as his mobile kitchen. Unfortunately, the very next day, while Lewis was selling burgers at Ale Industries in Oakland’s Fruitvale neighborhood, the truck was stolen.

The stolen vehicle, valued at $3,000, contained not only the barbecue equipment but also $500 worth of hamburgers. Lewis had loaded the truck and briefly stepped inside the brewery to greet staff, leaving the truck unattended for a short while.

According to Oakland Police, the city has experienced a surge in vehicle thefts this year, with over 12,700 vehicles reported stolen, a 51% increase compared to 2022.

Lewis is hopeful that someone will recognize his 2001 white Chevy S-10 pickup with black wheels, tinted windows, and a noticeable dent on the passenger side of the bed. The truck’s license plate number, which is likely removed, is 13637M3.

Unfortunately, this is yet another sorry tale in the story of Oakland car crimes. Just a few weeks back, the OPD admitted to letting bippers go without recourse if caught burglarizing cars.