Nashville Community Rallies to Support Navy Veteran After Truck Theft
In Nashville, a heart-wrenching incident has unfolded that’s tugging on the community’s heartstrings. The Berry Hill Police Department is reaching out for help to track down a thief who callously stole a truck belonging to a Navy veteran. This unfortunate event happened on October 29, but it has recently come to light as police continue to search for answers.
Meet the Veteran: Alex MacKenzie
The victim, 35-year-old Alex MacKenzie, served our country proudly in the Navy, achieving the rank of petty officer third class (PO3). Alex, originally from California, dedicated his service from 2017 to 2021, where he honed his skills on aircraft carriers. He specialized in electronic attack technology, focusing particularly on the advanced EA Growler jet aircraft, which plays a crucial role in keeping our skies safe from threats.
After concluding his military service, Alex made a big move—from sunny California to the Volunteer State of Tennessee. He settled down in Berry Hill, where he’s been working with a construction company, particularly in electrical work. His trusty 2010 black Nissan Frontier pick-up truck was not just his vehicle; it was his lifeline for getting to work. Unfortunately, everything changed one fateful morning.
The Day Everything Changed
On October 29, as Alex was heading to work, he arrived at his apartment complex’s parking garage, only to discover that his beloved truck was gone. To make matters worse, the truck wasn’t just an item of transport; it contained his wallet, credit cards, and essential work equipment. Alex described the sense of violation he felt as something that’s hard to shake off, saying, “It feels very, very strange.”
The Thief’s Trail
Berry Hill police didn’t waste any time in investigating the theft. Thanks to surveillance footage from a nearby fast food restaurant, they identified crucial evidence. That morning, Alex’s credit card was used at a McDonald’s at around 2:47 a.m. In the footage, the suspect is seen pulling up, getting out, and placing an order. Just a few hours later, around 10 a.m., the same card was used once again at the same location.
Authorities have described the suspect as a man with a skinny build, approximately 6-feet tall, featuring a beard and a short afro. Alex shared his feelings upon seeing the footage, expressing his hope for the return of his truck, emphasizing that he works hard and would love to have his vehicle back to avoid taking rideshares every day.
How Alex is Coping
In the wake of losing his truck, Alex has been relying on rides from friends and coworkers to get to his job site. “I’ve been taking Ubers every morning,” he told a local reporter, feeling grateful for the support he has received from colleagues who have given him rides when they can. He also shared his spiritual journey during this challenging time. “I’m Catholic. I’ve been going to church the last couple of Sundays. I’ve been praying to St. Jude,” he said, hoping for a glimmer of hope amid the frustration.
Community Support
Recognizing the need for support, a GoFundMe page has been set up to assist Alex with his transportation costs until he can secure a new vehicle. The kindness of the Nashville community is shining through, highlighting just how important it is to look out for one another.
Call for Help
If you have any information regarding the theft of Alex MacKenzie’s truck or the identity of the suspect, the Berry Hill Police Department urges you to come forward. The community is rallying behind Alex, and every bit of information may help in recovering his vehicle.
Together, we can help bring back a veteran’s sense of security and restore his ability to get to work. Let’s show the power of community in action!
