Police Sought Leads in New Orleans Excavator Theft
The New Orleans Police Department is seeking the public's help to find a stolen construction vehicle.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Property Crime
Authorities have requested assistance locating a 2005 Caterpillar Model 330 CL excavator stolen from the 5500 block of Bullard Avenue. The heavy machinery was taken by an unidentified person using a white semi-truck and trailer.
Why it matters
The theft of high-value construction equipment significantly impacts local development projects and costs owners substantial repair or replacement fees. Authorities are urging witnesses to provide information that may aid in the recovery of the machine.
The stolen unit is identified by serial number CAT0330CCDKY0368. Officials are directing information to the NOPD Auto Theft Unit at 504-658-5543 or Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111.
The players
New Orleans Police Department
The primary law enforcement agency serving the city of New Orleans that oversees local investigations.
Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans
A non-profit organization that coordinates with law enforcement to manage anonymous tips from the public.
The details
The equipment was removed from the 5500 block of Bullard Avenue after being last seen on-site in August. Surveillance indicates an unknown individual utilized a white semi-truck with an attached trailer to facilitate the theft.
Timeline
Aug. 10, 2026: The owner last saw the excavator at the Bullard Avenue location at 5 p.m.
Sept. 21, 2026: The construction site was accessed by an unknown party between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Legal Context
This incident follows the pattern of heavy equipment larceny tracked by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Local authorities often face challenges in recovering such equipment due to the ease of transporting stolen vehicles on flatbed trailers.
Residents near the 5500 block of Bullard Avenue who may have home security footage from late September are encouraged to contact police. Increased awareness of suspicious heavy-duty vehicles in construction zones can help prevent future equipment thefts.
The takeaway
Securing heavy machinery with GPS trackers or disabling ignition systems can serve as a deterrent against professional theft rings. Property owners should maintain detailed records of equipment serial numbers to assist law enforcement during recovery efforts.
Further reading
For more information on local trends, visit Property Crime in New Orleans.
More information
To submit an anonymous tip, visit the Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans website.
