The Ransom Brothers are facing a major loss heading into the new year after their tour van was broken into and nearly all their equipment stolen.
AUSTIN, Texas — Ahead of the new year, an Austin-based band is facing a significant setback after their tour van was broken into and nearly all of their musical equipment was stolen.
The Ransom Brothers, a Southern rock group, said they had just completed their first U.S. tour when the theft occurred. Lead singer Sean McHargue told KVUE the incident took place shortly after the band returned home.
“For the band as a whole, it was our first experience really getting on the road with serious acts and serious bands,” McHargue said. “We would kind of look at each other and be like, ‘I wonder when, you know, it’s going to not go as well as it’s going’ and I spoke too soon. I should have knocked on wood a little harder.”
McHargue said the stolen gear included four guitars, one bass and two guitar amps, along with other items. He estimates the loss at about $13,000, but said it has also taken an emotional toll on him.
“I loved that guitar,” McHargue said. “I wake up every morning and the past couple days, it’s like losing a friend.”
Despite the setback, the band remains determined to continue performing. McHargue said the local music community has already stepped up, offering to lend equipment to help them stay on stage.
“It’s not just going out and playing for, you know, tips in a jar and just, you know, free beer and free food,” McHargue said. “We are ambassadors to the city’s culture. That, I think, it’s one of the most significant things about Austin as a city.”
The Ransom Brothers have launched a fundraiser and plan to continue performing while they work to raise funds to replace what was stolen.
KVUE has requested additional details about the theft from the Austin Police Department, but has not yet received a response at the time of publication.
