The Salvation Army red kettle at Food City on Lee Highway on the corner of Shallowford Road was stolen Tuesday afternoon.
Salvation Army officials said the thief was a man who looked to be donating. The suspect quickly jumped into a car and sped off about 2 p.m.
The bell ringer said the suspect got his wallet out to donate and then quickly grabbed the red kettle and jumped into the passenger side of a vehicle.
According to Captain Nathan Jones, the red kettle probably had close to $200 in it.
He said, “It hurts my heart that someone would steal from The Salvation Army when we so willingly give assistance for free. We will pray for the robber regardless and pray that God will more than make up the money in the other kettles.”
The red kettles will be visible now through Dec. 23 where folks can continue to donate. This year some red kettles will have credit card options as well.