Roller gives car to theft victim

Hazel Bain was given a car after she had hers stolen just before Christmas.

The benefactor was none other than newly appointed state Sen. Steve Roller.

‘My wife and I read it in the paper and we couldn’t believe it,’ Roller said when he first heard about the theft of Hazel Bain’s car the week before Christmas. ‘That’s when we started talking about doing something to help her out, seeing as she was trying to do good for others when this happened to her.’

The 1999 Chevy Lumina stolen from Bain had been given to her by her late husband. She said she left the keys in the car while delivering a food basket to a rural home. Bain noted she was out in the country and thought nothing about anyone taking her car until she stepped outside and discovered her car, as well as her purse which contained her cards and $300 cash, was gone. The car had only liability insurance and therefore is not covered for theft.

‘We attend church with her and we know she is a great lady,’ Roller said. ‘And, we had a spare car so we thought she could use the help. It all just worked out.’

Bain accepted the senator’s holiday gift, taking delivery of the 1987 Lincoln Town Car on Thursday.

‘At first I thought it was just to drive for a while, but he meant for me to have it,’ Bain said, choking back tears. ‘It shows people have great hearts. To help someone out he barely knows is so kind. I appreciate it so much.’

Bain noted the car has leather interior and drives great, adding Roller left her with a full tank of gas when she picked up the car.

‘I think I got as much for giving it as she did receiving it because doing good to people just makes you feel good, no matter what time of year it is,’ Roller said.

As for Bain’s good work, the devoted care-giver said she completed her basket delivery using a car her son loaned her. She even replaced two baskets that were stolen along with her Lumina.

‘But now I’m careful to stick my keys right in my pocket when I get out of the car,’ said Bain, noting she learned her lesson about leaving her car with keys or valuables inside.