Irreplaceable memorabilia of Randy Rhoads was recently stolen, including Rhoads' first guitar, and now former bandmate Ozzy Osbourne is offering a large cash reward for the gear's return.
According to a Facebook post by Osbourne, North Hollywood's Musonia School of Music, the institution founded by his late mother that now functions as a museum of Rhoads' legacy, was robbed on Thanksgiving night. A number of high-value items were stolen. Among them are a ca. 1963 Harmony Rocket (Rhoads' first guitar), gear from Rhoads' time with Quiet Riot, a prototype Marshall Head, and his mother's first trumpet.
In addition, a trove of keepsakes from the late legend's life was also taken. Due to the targeted nature of the burglary, Kelle Rhoads, manager of the Musonia School of Music and Randy's brother, believes it was committed by fans with knowledge of the building.
"There's no more pictures or memorabilia about my brother Randy; it's all gone," Kelle said in an interview with The Metal Voice.
In response to the robbery, Osbourne wrote that he has "decided to personally offer a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction and/or return of all stolen items."
Read the full post below for more information and contact details.
Update: The Metal Voice reports that several items, including Rhoads' mother's first trumpet, were recovered from a dumpster. See the full video interview here.