Thief steals dapper raccoon in bizarre break-in at Witch Way Australia in Townsville

A Townsville business has been left scratching its head after a break-in where the only thing stolen was a stuffed raccoon wearing a suit and bow tie.

Damage to the front of Witch Way Australia after a break-in at the West End store. Picture: Facebook/ Witch Way Australia

A Townsville business has been left scratching its head after a bizarre break-in where the only thing stolen was a stuffed raccoon wearing a suit.

The owners of Witch Way Australia reported arriving at their Ingham Road, West End store on Sunday to find it had been broken into.

Owner Fiona Ramage shared photos online showing the door busted open, revealing that — bizarrely — the only thing thieves appear to have stolen was a stuffed raccoon wearing a suit and red bow tie, known as Ralph.

A stuffed raccoon wearing a suit called Ralph has been stolen from Witch Way Australia after a break-in at the West End store. Picture: Facebook/ Witch Way Australia

“Please help. Our shop has been broken into overnight and ‘Ralph’ has been kidnapped,” Ms Ramage said.

“Fortunately, he is the only thing visibly stolen but we would like him back. He is not something you would find in Townsville and someone will know where he is.”

Witch Way Australia mother and daughter owners Fiona Ramage and Kristan Ramage. Picture: Shae Beplate.

Speaking to the Townsville Bulletin, Ms Ramage said the thieves had drilled out the deadlock on their front door, but the drill bit snapped off in the lock.

“We have a fairly loud buzzer alarm that goes off when the door opens so I think that’s what scared them off,” she said.

“The raccoon stood at the door as the ‘doorman’ so I think he was the closest thing and they’ve just grabbed him and run.”

Witch Way Australia is now calling on the community to help bring Ralph back, offering a $200 store voucher for his safe return.

“Please share and help bring Ralph home,” she said.

“Huge thanks to all who messaged us this morning to let us know.”

Police have been contacted for comment.

More to come.

Originally published as Thief steals dapper raccoon in bizarre break-in at Witch Way Australia in Townsville