Friends, strangers help man whose bike was stolen

CARBONDALE (WSIL) -- Social media users at home and abroad are banding together to help a victim of theft.

Carbondale resident Ace Nadal was shopping at Schnuck's Monday night when he came out to find his bike stolen, according to a Facebook post.

Johnny Logan, a Carterville resident known as Treston Ryne on Facebook, began a fundraiser that collected $400 after being live for 10 minutes.

"You know someone went out of their way to make his day bad," Logan said. "100 times more people went out of their way to make it good."

Logan says that people across the community, the country and beyond chipped in to help.

"Texas Seattle, Florida, I believe two of my aunts in the Philippines," Logan said.

As of Tuesday, more than 60 donations totaled upwards of $1455. Originally a goal of $500, Logan says the goal is now $8,000-$10,000.

"Then I can get a car from the place I work at and sell him a car," Logan said. "A year's worth of insurance... a bike rack... and a bike."

If that goal isn't reached, the money is going towards purchasing a new bike for Nadal. As more donations come in, it serves as proof that kindness can beat crime. Logan hopes the cycle of kindness continues.

"Everybody hates thieves. I think it was extra motivating to step in and contribute," Logan said. "He's going to end up with a better bike... but the more important thing to take home is the community's response to someone they love."

Those wishing to donate can visit the Facebook page here.