Memorial Statue Stolen in Merrifield

MERRIFIELD, Minn. (AP) — The grandparents of a 3 ½-year-old who was struck and killed by a minivan three years ago are stunned that someone would steal a woodcarving that evoked his memory.

The 200- to 300-pound elephant resembled a favorite stuffed animal of Jack Larson of rural Brainerd. During the summer months it would stand at the entrance to his grandparents' property in Merrifield. It had been stored for the winter in their pole barn.

Jack's grandmother, Donna Larson, says the theft was discovered last weekend. She says it doesn't make sense.

The woodcarving depicts a blue elephant sitting on a stump that has the name "Jack" carved into it. It's about three feet tall.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Crow Wing County sheriff's office at 218-829-4749.