Watch: Teen Caught On Camera Burglarizing Historic Ocean Liner, SS United States

A 17-year-old teen has surrendered to Philadelphia police after being linked to a burglary onboard the SS United States, a historic ocean liner docked at Pier 82.

Police sources said various tools and batteries were stolen from the iconic vessel earlier this month. The teen is now charged with burglary and trespassing.

Once a symbol of American maritime strength, the SS United States is undergoing a major transformation.

Under a $10 million agreement, the ship will be relocated to Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida, and transformed into the world’s largest artificial reef. There, it will be sunk and repurposed as a scuba diving destination.

Per the officials, the break-in occurred on October 2, 2024, when several suspects were caught on surveillance footage climbing the ship’s side with ropes.

The suspects were around for three hours before leaving with the stolen items, which authorities believe were mostly flashlights and batteries used by the SS United States Conservancy.

The group is suspected to have cut through a fence around the dock or arrived by boat to board the ship.

Video Credits: Philadelphia Police

Despite the damage caused, investigators noticed that the valuable items from the historic liner had already been removed long ago, leaving the burglars with little of the substantial worth.

Just days after the burglary, the SS United States Conservancy officially transferred the ship’s ownership to Okaloosa County, Florida.

The ocean liner, which still holds the transatlantic speed record set over 70 years ago, will be sunk offshore as part of an artificial reef project.

Along with the underwater destination, Okaloosa County has committed to establish a land-based museum to honor the legacy of the vessel.

The SS United States, launched in 1951 and designed to serve as a Cold War troop carrier, could transport 14,000 troops over 10,000 miles without refueling.

The ship, which once carried U.S. presidents and celebrities over the Atlantic, is now set to undergo major environmental remediation before being sunk.

The removal of dangerous materials from liner will take more than a year to ensure the safety of marine life on the reef.

Philadelphia police are still investigating the burglary and are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspects captured on camera.

Reference: Fox29, CBS News

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Source: Maritime Shipping News