When we brought you news last week of the Miner family’s two stolen cars, the response was nearly overwhelming, with much of the country going on immediate lookout for the 1966 Corvette convertible and 1969 Camaro SS clone. As it turns out, the two Chevrolets didn’t get very far before both were recovered and returned to Erik Miner’s father, but we imagine it was the readiness of the Hemmings Nation army to see the cars home safe and sound that kept the thieves from parting the cars out or shipping them overseas. Erik writes:

Thank You… Thank You… Thank You.  On Saturday August 7, both the 1966 Corvette Convertible and 1969 Camaro were recovered in two different locations in Northwest Arkansas.

Ken and Erik would like to extend a special thanks to Detective Mike Kugler and Detective Ed Williams and the entire Bella Vista police department for their successful investigation and recovery success…and the unrecognized good work they do in the silence of their offices and in the field.

While we don’t have many details at this time, the Corvette was located at a remote location in the woods with the only access through a farm gate and through a hay field.

Ken has not been able to inspect the Corvette in detail, as the police have not processed the car.  On first impression there appears to be limited damage. The Camaro is another story…..

The Camaro was recovered at a residence in Northwest Arkansas, not far from Simple Pleasures.  A man thought to be about 18-22 years old was taken into custody.  Police are investigating to determine if there were accomplices.

The thief(s) tried to disguise the car by doing their own “paint.”  They took off most of the trim, removed the trunk and tried to removed the dash. There is other body damage as well.  Once the police process the crime scene we can check for other damage.

Ken and Erik Miner would like to thank everyone who help spread the word of the stolen cars, including Northwest Arkansas TV stations KFSM and KNWA, and the staff at Hemmings Motor News.

Since many people have posted information about the theft on forms and discussion boards, Erik and Ken would like to encourage folks to post the news that the cars have been recovered.

Let’s hope justice prevails and the Miners’ insurance helps cover the cost of repairs.

UPDATE: The man arrested in connection with the thefts, 18-year-old Jesse Cole Fisher of 6188 Robin Road in Bella Vista, Arkansas, is free on a $750 bond, according to NWAOnline.com.