The infamous inner Richmond Octo-Truck. Photo by ron_toad
Some readers contacted me recently asking if I had any info on where the Octo-Truck had gone. After reading the email a couple of times, I had to feign ignorance. The Octo-Truck? I had no idea what they were talking about.
Turns out the Datsun truck pictured above is a cult favorite of the inner Richmond, where it’s often seen parked between Fulton and Geary and 4th Avenue and Arguello. It’s so popular that it even has a small Facebook group devoted to it.
They posted sightings of the orange Datsun, getting excited when an owner was actually spotted or the truck was in motion (“We spotted the Octo-Truck on the move the other day! It has an owner + does operate!”). They even put things in its truck bed and take pictures. Like visiting a special monument.
It’s clearly a love affair from afar – I don’t think the truck’s owner had any idea his vehicle was the object of such affection and attention. “Octo-truck got hooked up with sweet new mirrors!” one facebook fan posted to the wall.
The truck went missing in December; Facebook group owner Justin lamented its disappearance: “R.I.P. Octotruck, you had a strange life, but a good life. May your paint job never be forgotten.”
So I felt I had no choice but to open this up to all of my readers. Many of you are not in the Richmond District so keep your eyes peeled for this orange phenom and if you see it, let us know asap!
Sarah B.
It’s around the corner from me on Anza at Arguello next to Rossi. Ta Da. (Gimme the prize)
Hooray! Photo, Rob?
Of course, I’ve never noticed that they leave a baby in that truck. I’ll walk over and give it a bottle and burp it once or twice a day. Maybe bring it toy.
What….it’s at Anza and Arguello? How can it be that easy? I haven’t seen it for months.
I think Rob is giving the location of the truck as it is pictured in the top photo in this blog post.
Yes, sorry. I didn’t read that Team Richmond Blog was fretting over the missing truck. Perhaps the baby drove it off?
Oh Rob, you suck! 😉 Get me all excited with a false sighting!!!
@Rob: Let’s hope that’s not the case. I’ve seen that kid at Rossi – he’s a menace. Octo-Truck could be screwed!
I heard a rumor at Velo Rouge that Octo-Truck has moved to Fisherman’s Wharf area to be closer to the water. I’m going to contact some of my peeps who work at the Ripley Believe It or Not museum and have them put the word out on the street. I’ll keep you posted. This mystery can be solved!
I’ve just seen photographic evidence of Octo-truck parked at 19th and Irving. I think the photo is legit (i.e. recent), so this case may be closed. It’s grazing in new pastures.