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Cadillac Stolen From Staten Island Teen Has A Lot Of Sentimental Value, Family Says

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A 16-year-old Staten Island boy had his dream car stolen from him before he even had a chance to drive it on his own.

As CBS2's Hazel Sanchez explained, the car had sentimental value.

When you think about who you would find behind the wheel of a 1985 Cadillac Seville, chances are you wouldn't think of Vincent Gallichio.

"It just stood out," the youngest member of the Cadillac Club said.

At 16, Gallichio of Willowbrook joined the Verrazzano Cadillac Club after passing his written driver's test and getting a rare black and silver Cadillac as an early birthday gift from his parents.

Last week it was stolen, and he's devastated.

For him it was a final connection with his late grandfather.

"My grandfather liked classic cars and I wanted a classic car, so it was heartbreaking. I was really sad," he said.

"It's not just a regular car. It's not just a regular kid. He's a great, hardworking, student athlete who deserves this car," his mother Lori said.

Last Friday afternoon, Vincent's dad drove the Cadillac to a Sprint store on Richmond and Nome Avenues.

He parked right outside the doors and left the keys in the car because he said he didn't plan to be long.

When he came outside less than 5 minutes later he said the car was gone.

"I ran into the store for 2 seconds. I didn't think anybody would touch an 85 Cadillac, you know? It's heartbreaking, but soon we'll find the car," Vito said.

All his family and friends are looking for it, including members of the Verrazzano Cadillac Club.

"The kid looked like he was down and out, and he looked sad and I want to help him out," club president Joey Galante said.

"If I get it back I'll be so happy," he said.

Especially since he only drove it a couple of times with his parents.

He can't get his license until October.

The family is offering a reward for any information that helps them recover the car.

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