FYI: A Colorado resident has successfully reunited with his rare 1993 Nissan Skyline GT-R, thanks to the swift networking power of social media.
In an uplifting turn of events, Thomas Bristol, a Denver resident, has been joyfully reunited with his cherished 1993 Nissan Skyline GT-R, which was stolen just days before Christmas. Faced with the disheartening possibility of never seeing his prized vehicle again, Bristol embarked on a grassroots mission via social media to locate the missing car.
The Vanishing of the Rare R32 Skyline GT-R
The rarity of the 1993 Skyline GT-R, a model never sold in the United States, caught the eye of thieves who brazenly took it from outside Bristol’s home. This was a car that Bristol had gone through great lengths to legally import into the U.S. in 2018, making its disappearance all the more upsetting. CCTV footage captured the suspect approaching the car with a mask and tools, a detail that only added to Bristol’s urgency to recover it.
Social Media: The Community Detective
Bristol swiftly mobilized his community online, sharing details and images of the stolen vehicle across various platforms. The response was overwhelming, with fellow car enthusiasts and citizens alike rallying together to aid in the search. Thanks to this collective effort, sightings of the car began to emerge from various locations throughout Colorado Springs.
These reports provided Bristol with real-time updates on his car’s whereabouts, ultimately leading to its rediscovery in the Black Forest area. Remarkably, the vehicle was found without any apparent damage.
A Heartfelt Thank You
In a conversation with Automotive ADHD, Bristol expressed gratitude toward those who played a part in the incredible recovery. "From beginning to end, it was 44 hours," he remarked. "My car was stolen and they recovered it 44 hours later. It’s a testament to the power of community and social media."
Currently, law enforcement is holding the Skyline as evidence, but it will soon be returned to its rightful owner.
In Conclusion
This incident underscores the robust capabilities of social media in solving real-world problems. The story of Thomas Bristol and his reunion with his rare Nissan Skyline GT-R serves as an inspiring reminder that digital communities can make a significant impact.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or on Twitter @automotivefyi.
William Rapp
Editor, Automotive.fyi
