WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Volunteer cleanup group’s work van stolen (update: found)

ORIGINAL REPORT: That’s the work van used by A Cleaner Alki, the volunteer group founded by Erik Bell, who’s organized cleanups far beyond Alki – all over the peninsula. Erik emailed us today with a different kind of request – asking you to be on the lookout for the van, which somebody stole early this morning:

2006 Chevy 1500 Work Van

Stolen 1/12/24 around 6 am from Admiral area

White with some peeling paint around front window and door jam. Black bumpers, grille, rear light surround and door handles. No side windows, clear glass in the back doors and cab. Has a gray metal bulkhead behind the cab with circular cutouts. Kind of nondescript otherwise, no exterior graphics. Used for community cleanups and full of EGO brand tools and other gear.

Paper plates A6652308

If you see it, call 911.

UPDATE, 1/16: Erik emailed this morning to say that “Our van was recovered last night at 61st & Stevens with the help of Good Samaritan neighbor Christine and the SPD.” Christine told him she recognized it from the WSB post.

7 Replies to "WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Volunteer cleanup group's work van stolen (update: found)"

  • Nachobeaver January 12, 2024 (3:43 pm)

    Not sure if it’s yours but past couple nights I’ve seen similar vans parked in bushes down by off-ramp exit next to shrees gas station off 509

    • Erik January 12, 2024 (4:13 pm)

      I know the area you’re talking about off Cloverdale, those have been there awhile. I drove by there this morning and didn’t see ours. Thanks tho.

  • Admiral Admirer January 12, 2024 (5:00 pm)

    This is upsetting to me.  Erik is a gem for our community.  His volunteer group has done so much good.

  • dangsorrytohear January 12, 2024 (5:20 pm)

    Sorry to hear. So appreciate what you and your team do, Erik. Wishing you a quick recovery of your van and belongings. 

  • sbre January 12, 2024 (7:12 pm)

    Bummer to hear Eric, so sorry it happened.I’m committing the license plate to memory and will now be looking at all white vans that I see.

  • Lauren January 12, 2024 (7:43 pm)

    I’m so bummed about this! Do you know if anyone has contacted KOMO? They did a feature on Cleaner Alki not too long ago and would probably be interested in this story. Increased news coverage might help the van get found. 

  • Zoe January 13, 2024 (9:36 am)

    Sorry that happened Eric- you do such good work with it! 

Sorry, comment time is over.