Palm Springs HOA Offers $10,000 Reward for Return of Beloved Roadrunner Statue

In a community known for its charm and carefully curated aesthetics, the disappearance of a beloved Roadrunner statue has left a visible void. Now, over a year since the sculpture vanished, the Escena Homeowners Association is offering a $10,000 reward for any information leading to its safe return.

The Roadrunner statue, part of a coordinated outdoor art collection at the entrance to the Escena community on Vista Chino, was not only a piece of public art—it was a source of pride. Since its disappearance, residents say the loss has left a mark on the neighborhood’s identity.

“There’s a vacancy,” said one Escena homeowner. “It’s more than just a sculpture—it broke the artistic balance of the community. These statues even influenced people’s decision to move here.”

What makes the Roadrunner truly irreplaceable is the fact that its original artist has since passed away. Audrey Joseph, a longtime resident, believes the statue’s artistic and emotional value far exceeds the reward.

“I think it’s worth more than $10,000,” Joseph said. “You couldn’t recreate it exactly, and hiring someone to try could cost upwards of $30,000. But it’s not just about money—it’s a piece of who we are.”

Escena HOA Vice President Tim Mathias shared that efforts had been made to contact the artist’s studio in hopes of recreating the statue, but no response was received. For now, only a few staging lights and a lone post remain where the Roadrunner once stood.

“We just want it back,” Tim said. “We’re not here to accuse or prosecute anyone. We’ve made it clear—no questions asked. We just want the art returned to its home.”

The HOA is encouraging anyone with tips to come forward anonymously. If you have any tips on the missing roadrunner you can contact the Desert Resort Management phone number at (760)-346-1161 or email tmathias.escena@gmail.com.

For Escena, the search continues not just for a missing sculpture, but for the restoration of a piece of community spirit that residents feel was stolen right along with it. For more information tune into NBC Palm Springs.