Littler River-Academy Softball Championship Rings Stolen

The Little River-Academy Lady Bees softball team were supposed to be presented with their championship rings during a ceremony Friday, but they were stolen from coach Gus Beuershausen's pickup Thursday night.

KWTX reports that Temple police are investigating the theft, which occurred at an apartment complex in Temple.

KCEN reports that the 24 silver and diamond rings, valued at $7,500, were Beuershausen's truck, which was parked inside a gated community. Several of Beuershausen's personal belongings were stolen as well, but it's the loss of the rings that has affected him most.

"It was a special moment for these girls, and that's what I'm most heartbroken about," Coach Beuershausen told KCEN. "I'm sorry this happened. I feel responsible, and hopefully we can recover them."

According to KWTX, Academy Superintendent Keven Sprinkles wrote in a statement, This is a sad day for our district and our softball program. However we refuse to allow this criminal activity to detract from all of the hard work and determination our Lady Bees exhibited in earning these state championship rings."

The rings represent the varsity softball team's first state championship.

Anyone who may have information about the theft or the rings' whereabouts is asked to please contact Temple Police at (254) 298-5500, Academy High School at (254) 982-4201, or Crime Stoppers at (254) 526-8477. Information may also be submitted at bellcountycrimestoppers.com or via the P3 Tips app.