Bicycle detail

The bike theft in question occurred at 4:45p on Friday, August 30th, 2024. I had locked the bike to a concrete pole adjacent to the pedestrian walking path near Ocean Park, Santa Monica, using a medium-grade combination cable lock. I knew not to rely too heavily on a basic cable lock, so I resolved to remain nearby. Given that the bike was parked in a very public area, I was not expecting anyone to be so brash as to attempt a theft in broad daylight.

I was playing beach volleyball with three friends, roughly 50 yards away when the theft occurred. I was keeping an eye on the bike, and noticed that there was a heavy-set black man sitting very close to the bike; I didn't want to judge the guy, or make assumptions, so I just figured I'd continue keeping an eye on him. After one volleyball play, I looked up and noticed both he and the bike were gone (the cut lock and helment were left behind). I ran over to ask if any of the passers-by (skateboarders, pedestrians) had noticed anyone ride away, but no one noticed.

I had owned an maintained this bike for nearly 15 years; I am completely heartbroken, and would appreciate any help from the wider bike community.