In what can only be described as the most surprising heist (so far) this year, 100,000 organic eggs were recently stolen from the rear of a distribution trailer on Commerce Avenue in Antrim Township, Franklin County, Pennsylvania.
The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Chambersburg said in its report that the total value of the stolen goods amounts to approximately $40,000.
Authorities responded to the scene shortly after the incident, and the case remains under active investigation.
The heist took place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at approximately 8:40 p.m. at Pete & Gerry’s Organics in Greencastle, Pennsylvania.
The unusual nature of the heist has drawn comparisons to other historic food heists—like the $100,000 Canadian maple syrup heist of 2012, when thieves drained 3,000 tons of liquid gold from a strategic reserve.
Currently, with egg prices soaring due to avian influenza outbreaks, supply shortages, and strong demand, eggs have become an increasingly valuable commodity. As reported by the USDA, wholesale egg prices have continued to rise:
“Prices for national trading of trucklot quantities of graded, loose, White Large shell eggs increased $0.15 to $6.70 per dozen with a higher undertone.”
The USDA report also highlights the severe impact of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), which has devastated commercial egg farms across the US. The hardest-hit states include:
- Ohio – 5.15 million birds lost
- Missouri – 3.91 million birds lost
- North Carolina – 3.31 million birds lost
- Indiana – 965,500 birds lost
- Washington – 307,800 birds lost
- Arizona – 316,600 birds lost
- California – 75,200 birds lost
With millions of laying hens lost to the outbreak, egg availability has significantly declined, increasing prices to record highs.
As authorities work to track down the missing eggs, one thing is clear: as the cost of staple food rises, even cartons of eggs can become the centerpiece of a high-stakes heist. Officials urge anyone with information to contact Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Chambersburg.