lespecial has launched a GoFundMe to help pay for new instruments after Luke Bemand‘s custom basses were stolen along with the band’s suitcases in Syracuse, NY over the weekend.
In a note posted to social media, Bemand thanked fans for reaching out and wanting to help. “Being robbed of your possessions is a grim feeling,” he wrote, “but seeing our community come together in an effort to help supersedes that, and I’m grateful for it.”
He continued, “Many have asked how they can help, thanks to everyone who has taken the time to check resale platforms and local shops. We now have a GoFundMe set up to raise funds to purchase new instruments. If you are able to donate, it is immeasurably appreciated. Thank you for showing us the power of the Homieverse.”
According to the GoFundMe page, lespecial’s sprinter van was broken into on Saturday at the Collegian Hotel & Suites in Syracuse.
“The back window was shattered, and three of Luke Bemand’s bass guitars—including two irreplaceable custom one-of-a-kinds (pictured)—and two Swiss Army roller suitcases filled with clothes were stolen.
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“The band has filed reports with the hotel & police, contacted local pawn shops and continue to search for the missing instruments. Unfortunately the custom basses are not covered by insurance. This is a heartbreaking loss for Luke and lespecial – the custom basses in particular are completely unique and hold years of memories and creative energy.”
The band encouraged fans to “keep an eye out for the stolen items on resale platforms or in local shops.” You can also help by contributing to the GoFundMe here.
News Channel 9 Coverage
In a video from the night after the theft, Bemand can be seen playing a bass with the price tag dangling from the headstock during lespecial’s performance at Higher Ground in Burington, VT, where the band welcomed members of Dopapod to sit in. The concert marked Dopapod’s last show in the Northeast before the band’s impending hiatus. Watch lespecial’s full set below. The Dopapod sit-in starts at the 43-minute mark. Scroll down for additional photos of the stolen basses.
lespecial – Higher Ground – Burlington, VT – 12/8/24
