Del Rey man reunites with pet parrot that was stolen from his home

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A heartbroken Del Rey man reunited with his beloved pet parrot Saturday after searching for his friend for hours in downtown Los Angeles.

Alex Lujan, 29, said his pet parrot Johnny was stolen from his home Tuesday morning. Johnny had been with Lujan since he was 14 years old.

Lujan said he decided to search for Johnny Saturday through the streets of downtown because many people sell pets. He said he looked for his pet for several hours and was about to give up when he heard birds squawking.

He stopped by an unnamed store and found Johnny in a small cage on the sidewalk out front. Lujan said he told the man that was his bird, but the man said he bought Johnny from another pet store for $500.

Lujan said as soon as Johnny heard his voice, the parrot began squawking and whistling. He then told the man he would call the police since he did not believe Johnny was purchased from another store. The man fled from the area.

Johnny was brought back home. Police are investigating the incident, but said it is unclear if the man at the pet store faces any criminal charges.