A FedEx delivery driver, 31-year-old Austin Reichel, is facing charges after being accused of stealing more than $17,000 worth of electronics from a Walmart in Tulsa. The thefts were uncovered through an investigation launched by the Tulsa Police Department after the retail giant reported a significant spike in missing packages.
Investigation and Discovery of Theft Scheme
On March 18, 2026, Tulsa police began investigating the theft of high-end electronics after Walmart’s Asset Protection team noticed several packages were going missing. All the missing packages were linked to a single FedEx delivery driver, Austin Reichel. Walmart responded by placing tracking devices inside four electronics packages, three of which were scheduled for delivery that day to the Walmart store at 207 S. Memorial Drive in Tulsa.
According to investigators, Reichel successfully delivered two of the packages but kept the third. Surveillance footage showed Reichel discarding the third package into a dumpster at 1828 N. 105 East Ave., along with packaging materials from other items he had marked as delivered earlier in the day.
Follow-Up Investigation and Arrest
The investigation continued on March 19, when another package equipped with a tracking device was loaded onto Reichel’s truck. Although the package was marked as delivered, it never reached its destination. Authorities conducted a traffic stop shortly after Reichel left the Walmart location on Memorial Drive. During the stop, officers discovered the missing package still inside Reichel’s truck, which contained valuable electronics, including AirPods and cell phones.
The total loss from the stolen electronics was estimated at $17,330.33, which included a variety of high-end devices. Following his arrest, Reichel informed officers that he had a loaded handgun in a backpack inside his truck.
Charges and Legal Consequences
Reichel was arrested and booked into the Tulsa County Jail on multiple charges, including larceny from a retailer exceeding $15,000 and possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony. His alleged actions have raised concerns about the security of shipments and the potential for similar thefts across delivery networks.
FedEx’s Response and Cooperation with Authorities
In response to the allegations, FedEx issued a statement emphasizing the importance of customer security and assuring the public that they are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation. “The security of our customers’ shipments is a top priority,” FedEx stated. “This individual is no longer providing services on behalf of FedEx.”
Impact on Security and Accountability
This case underscores the potential vulnerabilities within shipping and delivery systems, particularly when trusted employees exploit their access for personal gain. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to prevent similar thefts from occurring in the future.
