Full Breakdown
Theft of Iconic Walrus Penis Bone from Donkey's Place in Camden
1/8/2026, 2:16:15 AM
Incident Overview
On December 29, 2025, a walrus penis bone, known scientifically as a baculum, was stolen from Donkey's Place, a renowned cheesesteak restaurant in Camden, New Jersey. The establishment, praised by the late chef Anthony Bourdain as having the best cheesesteaks in the Philadelphia area, has featured the walrus bone as a quirky conversation piece for decades. The theft occurred when a group of three men, who had been drinking at the bar, requested to see the bone while a bartender briefly stepped away. Surveillance footage captured one of the men wrapping the bone in a scarf and leaving the restaurant.
Background of Donkey's Place
Donkey's Place has been a staple in Camden since the 1940s, originally opened by Leon “Donkey” Lucas, a former heavyweight boxing contender. The restaurant has maintained a unique charm, filled with eclectic decor, including a megalodon tooth and the walrus baculum. The bone has become a beloved artifact, often eliciting curiosity and engagement from patrons who enjoy guessing its identity.
Owner's Response
Rob Lucas Jr., the current owner and grandson of the original proprietor, expressed his disappointment over the theft but stated he does not wish to pursue legal action. “We just want the thing back,” he said, emphasizing the sentimental value of the bone to the establishment. Lucas noted that the restaurant has lost some of its charm since the incident, with patrons expressing their dismay over the missing artifact.
Eyewitness Accounts
Employees at Donkey's Place reported that the group of men had been at the bar for several hours before the theft. Bartender Mia Panella remarked, “I wasn’t thinking that they would do something like this,” highlighting the unexpected nature of the incident. Melissa McNamee, another employee, noted that the bone had been a longstanding joke among regulars, further underscoring its significance to the bar's atmosphere.
Community Reaction
The local community has rallied around the incident, with many expressing indignation over the theft. Donkey's Place has taken to social media, posting a TikTok video that includes a plea for the return of the walrus bone and images of the alleged thief. Lucas mentioned that some of his tattoo artist friends have circulated the story, hoping to identify the individuals involved. He suggested that the thieves could return the bone anonymously, stating, “They could mail it back if they want. No questions asked.”
Conclusion
The theft of the walrus penis bone from Donkey's Place has not only affected the restaurant's unique character but has also sparked a community response aimed at recovering the cherished artifact. As the search continues, the incident serves as a reminder of the quirky charm that makes Donkey's Place a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
