Police are currently investigating a recent burglary of the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center in Montclair, New Jersey.
A team of “professional” robbers reportedly broke into the museum and stole several priceless pieces of memorabilia belonging to the Hall of Fame catcher on Tuesday night, according to the New York Daily News.
Authorities believe the thieves entered the museum through Yogi Berra Stadium, as it connects to the exhibit and is used by the New Jersey Jackals baseball team.
The thieves targeted “specific, valuable pieces of memorabilia,” according to a NYDN source. But it’s still unclear exactly what is missing at the present time.
Sports memorabilia expert Rob Lifson believes the stolen items may never be recovered, as it would be very difficult to sell them without arousing suspicion from law enforcement officials.
“This is very unique material and it would have to stay underground,” Lifson said. “These are not mass-produced items…it’s like trying to sell a famous painting. Anyone who bought them would have to keep it secret. Why not just steal the Mona Lisa and try to sell that instead?”
Berra had numerous memorabilia items on display in the museum, including: each of the 10 World Series rings he won, MVP awards, baseball cards and broken bats swung by former players (Willie Mays, Stan Musial and others).
[Photo credit: New York Daily News]