The Lufthansa Heist: A Bold Crime
The Heist at JFK Airport
On December 11, 1978, a high-stakes robbery unfolded at the Lufthansa cargo area at New York City’s Kennedy Airport. Six masked men executed a meticulously planned operation, overpowering ten employees and binding them at gunpoint. The criminals made off with an astonishing $5.8 million in cash and jewelry, making it one of the largest cash thefts in US history.
The Masterminds Behind the Crime
The heist was believed to have been orchestrated by organized crime figures, including James Burke, a notorious mobster associated with the Lucchese crime family. This crime syndicate had a history of operating under the radar and was believed to have inside information about the day’s operations at the airport.
A Dark Aftermath
The Elimination of Witnesses
In the months following the heist, a series of murders linked to the robbery began to unfold. Participants and witnesses in the heist started disappearing, with reports suggesting that Burke ordered these killings to eliminate anyone who could testify against him. This gruesome measure ensured that the true story of the heist would remain buried.
The Loot Remains Missing
Despite extensive investigations by law enforcement, the stolen loot was never recovered. The lack of physical evidence and the silencing of key witnesses left authorities stumped. The myth of the Lufthansa heist grew, transforming it into an infamous chapter in organized crime history.
Fun Fact
The Connection to Cinema
The Lufthansa heist was famously portrayed in the classic film Goodfellas, directed by Martin Scorsese, which heightened public interest in this remarkable crime.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on the Lufthansa Heist
If you're interested in learning more about this crime, check out "The Lufthansa Heist: Inside the $5 Million Robbery that Shook New York" by James McBrides. This book delves deep into the planning, execution, and aftermath of this legendary heist.
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