Pennsylvania authorities are searching for thieves who stole 100,000 organic eggs from a wholesaler’s warehouse over the weekend. The $40,000 heist, which occurred in Greencastle, Pennsylvania, comes as the country grapples with an egg shortage and skyrocketing prices.
Pennsylvania State Trooper Megan Frazer, who is leading the investigation, described the theft as unprecedented, stating, “In my 12 years on the force, I’ve never seen anything like this. The only similar case was a stolen trailer full of chickens a decade ago.” Given the high value of the stolen eggs, authorities have classified the incident as a major felony.
Egg prices have surged over 50% since last year, reaching an average of $5.29 per dozen in January. The increase is largely due to a bird flu outbreak that has led to the culling of over 13 million hens since December. Farmers are struggling to contain the disease, exacerbating supply shortages.
The stolen eggs were taken from a Pete and Gerry’s Organics warehouse trailer just before 9 p.m. on Saturday, according to police reports. The company has not yet responded to requests for comment. Meanwhile, some grocery stores are running out of eggs, and even Waffle House has imposed a 50-cent surcharge per egg due to supply constraints.
As authorities continue their investigation, farmers and consumers alike are feeling the impact of rising costs and dwindling egg supplies.
