Police: '$2 million in paintings' stolen from Abilene motel

ABILENE, Texas - Abilene police are investigating an art heist at a south side motel.

A man staying at the Tower Motel on South 1 st Street told police someone stole more than $2 million worth of paintings from his room Sunday.

Ricky Denzler, 60 of Lubbock, said he was passing through Abilene on his way to the Metroplex. He rented a room at the motel in order to visit family.

There were a total of five paintings taken. Denzler estimated one is worth $2 million alone. He said two others are valued at $24,000 and $16,000.

According to police, Denzler painted the art himself and is also the one who estimated their worth. Police tell KTXS in order for the amounts to be official, they would have to be appraised by a professional.

Police also said Denzler did not provide any proof the paintings exist.

KTXS has reached out to Denzler for comment.