Taxidermy Deer Head Stolen From Tempe Restaurant
A man took a deer head from Night Owl Pizza and Drinks after ordering two drinks.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Property Crime
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A man stole a taxidermy deer head from Night Owl Pizza and Drinks in Tempe after positioning his bike near an exit. The item, which belonged to a partner's grandfather, was taken from the restaurant wall.
Why it matters
The restaurant is offering a $250 gift card and merchandise to encourage the public to help recover the sentimental heirloom. Staff captured the incident on surveillance footage as the suspect exited through a patio door.
No official report regarding the theft has been filed with Tempe police as of Oct. 5. The business is currently offering a $250 gift card for the return of the stolen property.
The players
Night Owl Pizza and Drinks
This is a local establishment in Tempe where the theft took place.
Tempe Police
This is the local law enforcement agency that has not received a formal report regarding the theft.
The details
Surveillance footage shows the man ordering two drinks and placing a bicycle near a patio exit before he removed the deer head from the wall. He subsequently exited the restaurant through a door located near the bathrooms.
Timeline
The suspect entered Night Owl Pizza and Drinks at 9:53 p.m. on Sept. 21, 2026.
The theft occurred on Sept. 21, 2026.
No official report had been filed with Tempe police as of Oct. 5, 2026.
Legal Context
This theft fits into broader concerns about property crime in local business districts, similar to the trends observed during the 2024 Tempe small business security initiative. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges small businesses in Tempe face regarding property security and theft recovery.
Residents and customers should remain vigilant and contact the restaurant if they recognize the individual in the surveillance footage. The incident serves as a reminder for other local businesses to monitor high-value displays and patio access points.
The takeaway
Maintaining physical security for sentimental items can be difficult in busy service environments. Property owners are encouraged to secure valuable wall-mounted decor to prevent opportunistic thefts.
Further reading
For more information on local safety trends, visit Property Crime.
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Do you feel petty theft at local businesses is happening more often in your area?
