In the early morning hours of Saturday, December 7, while parked at the Collegian Hotel & Suites in Syracuse, New York, the touring van belonging to genre-bending trio lespecial was broken into. The incident resulted in the loss of three of bassist Luke Bemand’s instruments, including two irreplaceable custom-made bass guitars, as well as two Swiss Army roller suitcases filled with clothing.
The band has filed reports with both the hotel and local law enforcement and has reached out to area pawn shops in an effort to recover the stolen items. Unfortunately, the custom bass guitars were not covered by insurance, making their loss not only a financial setback but an emotional one—these instruments represent years of creative development, personal craftsmanship, and countless performances.
In response, lespecial has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help fund the replacement of the stolen gear. Friends, fans, and supporters are invited to assist by donating, staying vigilant for the missing instruments in local music shops or online marketplaces, and sharing information to help spread the word.
The goal is to ensure that this setback does not silence lespecial’s distinct sound. By coming together as a community, supporters can help the band return to the stage, preserve their musical legacy, and continue their innovative artistry.
To contribute or learn more about how to help, please visit: Rally for lespecial: Lost Basses & Gear GoFundMe