Penguins launch investigation after Jaromir Jagr bobbleheads stolen in California

The Penguins retired Jagr's jersey Feb. 18

The Pittsburgh Penguins have launched an investigation after a shipment of bobbleheads celebrating NHL great Jaromir Jagr were stolen in California. 

Fans were supposed to receive the gift as part of a giveaway during Thursday’s game against the San Jose Sharks, but the Penguins informed them of the theft on social media, adding in a news release the team became aware of the missing cargo when it didn’t receive a shipment on time.  

Jaromir Jagr speaks

Jaromir Jagr speaks during his jersey retirement ceremony before a game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Los Angeles Kings at PPG Paints Arena Feb. 18, 2024, in Pittsburgh.  (Joe Sargent/NHLI via Getty Images)

"We were shocked to be a victim of cargo theft, and we are working closely with local and federal authorities on the investigation," Penguins President of Business Operations Kevin Acklin said. 

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"While this unfortunate incident adds to the legend of Jaromir Jagr, who will be in attendance as our guest at tonight’s game, we look forward to resolving this theft and delivering the prized Jagr bobbleheads to their rightful homes, with our fans."

The Penguins said they contacted the manufacturer and transportation companies once they learned of the missing cargo, and they alerted the "appropriate state and federal authorities who are currently working to locate the cargo." 

Jaromir Jagr warms up

Jaromir Jagr skates during warmups after having his number retired and a banner raised to the rafters before a game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Los Angeles Kings at PPG Paints Arena Feb. 18, 2024, in Pittsburgh.  (Joe Sargent/NHLI via Getty Images)

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In addition to law enforcement, Jagr is apparently working to track down the bobbleheads. 

Pittsburgh’s social media team made light of the theft with a video of Jagr joining the search. 

Jagr, the NHL's second all-time leading scorer, had his No. 68 jersey retired by the Penguins Feb. 18. He plays on the team he owns in his native Czech Republic.

Fans hold up Jaromir Jagr posters

Pittsburgh Penguins fans hold up Jaromir Jagr posters during a game against the Los Angeles Kings at PPG Paints Arena Feb. 18, 2024, in Pittsburgh.  (Joe Sargent/NHLI via Getty Images)

Fans will be given a voucher to collect the bobbleheads at a later date, the team said Thursday. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

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Paulina Dedaj is a Sports Reporter for Fox News Digital.

Authored by Paulina Dedaj via FoxNews March 14th 2024