Go-karts familiar to parade-goers stolen from Sacramento group. ‘We’re dead in the water’

Eight go-karts were stolen Thursday from a Hagginwood trailer belonging to nonprofit Ben Ali Shriner.

The theft occurred in the 3200 block of Marysville Boulevard, according to the Sacramento Police Department.

Ben Ali Shriner, part of an international nonprofit whose Sacramento chapter supports the Shriners Children’s hospitals, has long used the go-karts to put on parades to raise money.

“These Go Karts are the most recognized in parades. Kids love it!” an affiliate wrote in a social media post shared by the Shriners. “Does it get any lower than this.”

Police reported Friday that go-karts numbered 1 to 5, 8, 10 and 11 were stolen. The Shriners said on social media that all of the remaining go-karts had been vandalized.

Shriners typically drive the go-karts in specific formations, waving the flag that represents their organization. They have started a GoFundMe in an attempt to replace the missing or destroyed vehicles.

“Right now we’re dead in the water,” Cris Bryceson, Motor Corps captain, told KCRA. “We can’t perform. We can’t please the crowd .... This a big blow by having us down.”

Police continue to investigate the incident. All information about the go-karts can be reported to the Police Department.