Authorities Trying To Track Down Train Thief

ARCHER LODGE – For the second time in less than six months, thieves have stolen a trackless train and trailer in Johnston County.
Xavier Parrott the owner and operator of Big Bounce Party Rentals of Clayton said the amusement ride theft has forced him to cancel several upcoming events. “I just really need it back. It’s how I make a living. It’s my business,” Mr. Parrott said Thursday afternoon.

The Royal Express trackless train was kept inside a 20 foot enclosed trailer and when not in use, left inside the trailer at a storage lot on Wendell Road. Parrott said the larceny occurred sometime between January 13 and January 31.

The thief stole the enclosed trailer containing the train. Combined, the trailer and train were valued at $44,000. Parrott said he estimates 20 percent of his annual business is with the train set, used at birthday parties, festivals, church events, and as the Polar Express in November and December.

“I had to cancel several events I had scheduled with the train. The cargo trailer also had stuff stored in it. That’s how I get equipment back and forth. I’m trying to find other options to transport my equipment. This was my biggest trailer used to haul inflatables and different rides.”

Mr. Parrott said the thief didn’t touch a separate rock climbing wall or amusement ride trailer, just the plain unmarked white trailer containing the trackless train.

Parrott has been in contact with Russell Ragland, the owner of Ragland Production, who had an enclosed trailer and trackless train stolen from his Main Street, Clayton business in August 2022. Parrott isn’t sure if the two incidents are connected. “I’m not sure but it is strange that both are in the same area.”

Anyone with information about the trackless train thieves are asked to contact the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office or Clayton Police.