In a shocking incident that has left the community astounded, a 200-foot radio tower owned by WJLX in Jasper, Alabama, was stolen by thieves, resulting in the station being forced to suspend its operations. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has ordered the station off the air while authorities investigate the baffling disappearance of the heavy steel structure.

Brett Elmore, the general manager of WJLX, expressed his disbelief at the audacity of the crime. "In all my years in this business, I have never seen anything like this," he stated, emphasizing that the theft of a tower of this magnitude is highly uncommon.

While the station still boasts its FM transmitter and tower, the FCC has prohibited its operations as long as the AM station remains off the air. This decision has had a profound impact on the community of Walker County, which relies on the station as its primary source of news and entertainment. Elmore noted that the county, with a population of approximately 68,000 people, is now without its "sound" and "voice."

The financial implications of the theft have been significant for WJLX, a radio station that has been serving the community since the mid-1950s. Replacing the stolen tower could cost anywhere between $60,000 and $100,000. The station's grounds, unfortunately, were not insured against theft, adding to the burden.

The theft came to light on February 2 when a maintenance crew arrived at the site only to discover the tower's absence. The tower, which had been situated in a wooded area behind a local poultry plant, was dismantled by the thieves, who cut the securing wires and also stole other equipment from the property. The station's AM transmitter was also taken from a nearby building.

Local police, equally surprised by the brazen robbery, are now investigating the incident. Video footage is being examined, but no significant leads have emerged as of yet. The suspects likely targeted the tower to sell it for scrap metal, according to Brett Elmore.

As news of the tower theft spread, Elmore decided to create a GoFundMe page to raise funds for a replacement tower. The online campaign has generated over $1,300 in donations since its inception, reflecting the community's support.

Elmore plans to take decisive steps to protect any future tower from theft, stating that it will be equipped with gates, locks, and surveillance cameras. The goal is to ensure the security of the facility, surpassing even that of Alcatraz prison.

As the investigation continues, the community eagerly awaits the restoration of their beloved radio station's AM transmission, hoping for swift justice and the return of their "voice."