Police stumped by theft of rare tree in Wisconsin capital

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Police are stumped by the theft of a rare pine tree from the University of Wisconsin Arboretum. UW-Madison police said Thursday that the 25-foot Algonquin Pillar Swiss Mountain pine was sawed down sometime between Nov. 5 and Nov. 9.

The stolen tree was about 30 yards from a street that runs through the arboretum, which is a popular spot for walkers, joggers, bicyclists and nature lovers.

Police say a company white fir located nearby that was planted in 1981 had a 12-foot section cut from its top. That was left behind.

Arboretum staff estimated the cost of the stolen and damaged trees to be at least $13,000.