Los Angeles

Stolen Ferrari Found After Nearly 30 Years

The car is worth an estimated $50,000, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials

A cherry-red Ferrari stolen nearly 30 years ago was found this week, seized decades after it went missing from an Orange County car consignment lot, according to customs officials in California.

The 1981 Ferrari, similar to the one driven by Tom Selleck throughout much of the '80s as TV's "Magnum, P.I.," was about to be shipped overseas when it was discovered.

The 308 GTSi was on its way to Poland out of the Los Angeles/Long Beach Seaport complex when someone realized the vehicle identification number matched a different 1980s Ferrari that was shipped to Norway more than a decade ago.

"This VIN discrepancy is what 'raised a red flag' and prompted further scrutiny," said Carlos Martel, director of Customs and Border Protection's port operations, in a statement. "Such keen attention to details by CBP officers is commendable, especially considering they process a daily average of 500 vehicles intended for export."

The car, stolen in July 1987, has 45,000 miles on it and is estimated to be worth $50,000, according to the agency.

The former owner of the car was paid by his insurance company at the time of the theft, officials said.

It was not immediately clear if anyone is facing charges related to the theft or what will be done with the car.

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