More than $ 200,000 of Las Cruces HS tape equipment stolen in Albuquerque from competition

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A van of more than $ 200,000 worth of band equipment belonging to the Las Cruces High School Showcase Band was stolen in Albuquerque prior to the band’s competition.

“As soon as we heard the news, everything froze and our hearts fell,” Lorraine Leachman,
LCHS Showcase Band Fundraising Chair says. “These children worked tirelessly and with great dedication
their passion for music and each other; imagine all this trouble stolen from the
Children, it was absolutely heartbreaking. “

Band members and parents heard of the news when they got on a bus in Las Cruces that was heading to Alberquerque for the competition.

One parent, Heather Doolittle, says their daughter was the captain of the Color Guard and that the Color Guard flags were in the stolen truck.

“She was really disappointed that the flags they had been practicing with would not be available. They found others and made some substitutions during the show, but it wasn’t who they were training with, ”said Doolittle.

These substitutions came from the New Mexico State University Marching Band to ensure the students had everything they needed for their performances. In addition, the University of New Mexico Marching Band and other high schools offered assistance to the students at Las Cruces High School.

Despite the challenges, parents tell KTSM 9 News that the Las Cruces High School Showcase band took fourth place in the competition and advanced to the finals.

“The performance has to go on,” says Ty Frederick, LCHS Band Director. “The wave of support
was incredibly touching. I am so proud of how the students encouraged each other to
Despite the challenge that was presented to us this morning and delivered a great show! “

The Las Cruces High School Showcase band board says the band members are collecting donations for their equipment. The band seeks community help to replace the stolen equipment. A link can be found on the Las Cruces High School Showcase Band website or you can contact [email protected].

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