A cherished piece of automotive history, reminiscent of a bygone era, has found its way back to its rightful owner. The iconic 1956 Dodge Coronet, styled to mirror the vehicle from the 1950s television series “Highway Patrol,” was recently recovered after being taken on Christmas Day. Discovered in an abandoned area, the car showed signs of alterations but remained largely intact. Owner Kyle Okura expressed relief and gratitude for its return. However, some modifications were evident: the ignition and battery had been removed, and the Highway Patrol emblems on the doors repainted. Despite these changes, Okura plans to restore the car and enhance its security. This vehicle holds sentimental value, purchased years ago by Okura’s father, Albert, who saw it as a symbol of American culture.

The Return of a Timeless Icon

The recovery of this classic 1956 Dodge Coronet has brought immense relief to its owner, Kyle Okura. Found behind a vacant apartment complex in San Bernardino, the car appeared mostly undamaged despite some alterations. Okura, president of the Juan Pollo chicken restaurant chain, felt a wave of gratitude knowing that his prized possession was back in one piece. The vehicle, which is used in parades and events, was stolen from the headquarters of Juan Pollo on J Street. Although the thieves had tampered with the ignition, battery, and painted over the Highway Patrol logos, Okura remains optimistic about restoring it to its former glory.

Okura suspects that the publicity surrounding the theft may have deterred the culprits from pursuing their plans further. The discovery of the car was reported by a citizen who noticed the vintage Dodge parked on an abandoned property. Authorities noted that there was no immediate recognition of the vehicle as stolen at the time of reporting. For Okura, this experience underscores the importance of safeguarding such historical treasures. He plans to repaint the car and find a more secure location for it, ensuring it remains protected for future generations to admire.

A Symbol of Americana Reclaimed

This 1956 Dodge Coronet holds deep significance beyond its aesthetic appeal. Purchased by Albert Okura, the founder of Juan Pollo, the car represents a piece of Americana that resonates with the family’s legacy. Albert, known for his contributions to preserving local history, including opening a McDonald’s museum and restoring the town of Amboy, saw the Dodge as a symbol of America’s rich cultural heritage. Now, with the car back in the family's hands, Kyle feels confident that his father would be proud of its safe return.

The restoration process will involve meticulous attention to detail, aiming to bring back the car’s original charm. Kyle intends to repaint the vehicle, replacing the altered logos and addressing the missing components like the ignition and battery. This effort reflects the family’s commitment to preserving not just a car but a piece of history. The story of this 1956 Dodge Coronet serves as a reminder of the enduring power of community and the importance of protecting our shared cultural icons. As Kyle looks forward to showcasing the restored vehicle in parades and events, he honors both his father’s legacy and the spirit of a bygone era.