URGENT UPDATE: A Jacksonville food truck owner, Lorenzo Perez, woke up on Christmas morning to a devastating surprise—his business trailer, essential for his livelihood, was missing. The trailer for his food truck, Perla del Norte, disappeared overnight from its usual location on the Northside, prompting an immediate community response.
The local food truck community is rallying to locate the stolen trailer, recognizing the severe impact this theft has on Perez’s ability to support his family. “It’s terrible. It’s for supporting the family,” Perez expressed. “I need a job, this job for my family, my grandson, my granddaughter.” Losing the trailer means losing a vital source of income during this holiday season.
In a show of solidarity, Robert Germano, owner of Trout River Food Park, has stepped forward to offer a $500 reward for information leading to the trailer’s return. Germano learned of the theft through a social media post by another food truck, To Be Frank, which highlighted Perez’s plight. “I’m really frustrated with it so much that I was like, yeah, I’m gonna put up a $500 reward and anything to try to get this back,” Germano stated.
Germano emphasized the human impact of this theft, stating, “That’s his business. That’s how he supports his family. It’s not just something, vehicle stolen. That’s his job. That’s his business. And that’s how his family is involved in the business as well.” The community’s support is crucial as they seek to restore Perez’s means of livelihood.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the trailer’s whereabouts to contact Perez directly or reach out to the local sheriff’s office. This incident has sparked conversations about the safety of small business owners and the importance of community support in times of need.
The emotional toll on Perez and his family is significant, particularly during the holidays, a time typically associated with joy and celebration. As the search continues, the Jacksonville community remains hopeful for a positive outcome.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story. The need for community awareness and vigilance has never been more critical as local businesses face challenges that threaten their very existence.
