Two Bold Train Heists: Thieves Make Off with Nike Shoes Again!

By Matthew Holloway |

The Arizona Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol has arrested two suspects in connection with a recent train robbery in northern Arizona, which involved a shipment of Nike shoes. The arrests occurred earlier this week along Interstate 40 between Kingman and Williams, according to a report by Fox 10 Phoenix.

In an official press release issued on Friday, the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) detailed the incident that unfolded days prior. State Troopers patrolling the area were alerted to the ongoing train robbery. They successfully apprehended the driver of one suspect vehicle. Meanwhile, federal law enforcement agents tracked down a second vehicle and suspect, who was also taken into custody. Both individuals face multiple charges.

This incident is part of a troubling trend; Arizona has experienced an increase in train robberies recently. In January, authorities uncovered connections between such crimes and the Mexican Sinaloa Cartel. During congressional testimony, Republican Senator Todd Young of Indiana highlighted a notable case where over $440,000 worth of Nike shoes was stolen from a BNSF train. According to officials, the train’s air brakes were sabotaged while it traveled on tracks north of Phoenix, linking the crime to cartel activity.

AZCentral reports that the stolen cargo from last week also included Nike footwear, although the total value of the items taken has not been disclosed. However, AZDPS confirmed that both vehicles involved were filled with stolen shoes.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.