$10,000 reward money offered in Bass Pro gun theft

MACON (AP) - Federal authorities and a trade association for the firearms industry say they're offering $10,000 in reward money in hopes of solving the theft of 17 rifles from Bass Pro Shops in Macon.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is offering a $5,000 reward, which is being matched by the National Shooting Sports Foundation for a total reward of $10,000.

Bibb County sheriff's officials say four men broke through a glass door at the outdoor store late Sunday night, then headed to the gun area. Authorities said 17 AR-15 semi-automatic rifles were stolen.

Bibb County Sheriff David Davis said one of the 17 rifles was recovered in Atlanta on Tuesday night.

``Gun thieves are a principle source of firearms for criminals who threaten public safety,'' said Christopher Shaefer, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Atlanta Field Division.

Separately, the two organizations also on Friday announced a combined $10,000 reward for information in the Sept. 23 theft of firearms from American Jewelry and Pawn in Moultrie.