“There’s just emotional fatigue, with all the what-ifs: what if I had placed it differently, or checked on it more frequently,” expressed Mikendra McCoy, president of the California High School Speech Association.
Rental Truck Stolen from Newark Hotel
McCoy, who traveled from Carlsbad (San Diego County), reported that a U-Haul truck was taken from her Newark hotel either late Wednesday or early Thursday. This theft occurred as students and organizers were gearing up for a tournament scheduled at James Logan High School that weekend.
In response, the staff quickly procured replacement equipment from Target and Amazon.
“You immediately take action to resolve the issue because there are students counting on us, and this tournament cannot be affected by the actions of one individual,” said McCoy.
Local law enforcement documented the theft of the 20-foot truck from the Residence Inn, which contained $10,000 worth of gear for the tournament, including technical equipment, risers, and 500 “Cali the Cado” mascot plushies. Additionally, the truck held business attire and ties meant for students who couldn’t bring their own professional clothing for the competition.
Truck Discovered Empty
Alameda County sheriff’s deputies later found the truck abandoned and empty at an apartment complex in Hayward, with a broken lock discovered nearby.
“When I asked if anything was left in the truck, the officer regretfully informed me that I would be disappointed—there was nothing,” recounted McCoy.
Noah Martinez, captain of the speech and debate team at James Logan High, shared a message for the perpetrator: “Always consider the impact of your actions on others; you may have stolen a truck, but it deeply affects the entire speech and debate community in California.”
The Source: KTVU reporting, California High School Speech Association
