Horse stolen from Enumclaw ranch, reopening family's grief after recent death of adoring owner

Stephanie Burns' beloved horse Ruben was taken from the family's secluded barn, leaving her twin sons devastated.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:08am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a horse's halter and lead rope lying on the ground of a dimly lit barn, the harsh flash creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The sudden theft of a beloved family's horse has reopened deep wounds of grief and violation.Enumclaw Today

An Enumclaw family is facing renewed heartbreak after the cherished horse of their late daughter Stephanie Burns was stolen from the family's ranch. Stephanie, who passed away in November after a battle with breast cancer, spent much of her time caring for her horses, including the registered horse named Ruben. The theft, which was captured on security camera footage, has left Stephanie's 12-year-old twin sons and the rest of the family devastated.

Why it matters

The theft of Ruben has reopened fresh wounds for the family following Stephanie's recent passing, as the horse was deeply connected to her memory. The loss of Stephanie's beloved companion has compounded the family's grief, leaving them feeling violated and robbed of another piece of their daughter's legacy.

The details

The theft occurred in the early morning hours at the family's secluded barn, far from public roads. Security camera footage shows a large truck towing a three-horse trailer, indicating the thieves were familiar with horses and the property. The motive remains unclear, as Ruben was a registered horse that would be difficult to sell. The family is asking the public for help in bringing Ruben home, especially Stephanie's twin sons who are devastated by the loss of their mother's cherished companion.

  • The theft occurred early Thursday morning.
  • Stephanie Burns passed away in November after a battle with breast cancer.

The players

Stephanie (Hodge) Burns

Stephanie was the late daughter of Jack Hodge and the owner of the stolen horse, Ruben. She spent much of her time caring for her horses at the family's ranch.

Jack Hodge

Stephanie's father and the owner of the Double Star Ranch where the theft occurred.

Wesson Burns

One of Stephanie's 12-year-old twin sons.

Colton Burns

The other of Stephanie's 12-year-old twin sons.

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What they’re saying

“Who even tries to steal a horse?”

— Wesson Burns, Stephanie's 12-year-old twin son

“Oh, she'd be on the case.”

— Wesson Burns, Stephanie's 12-year-old twin son

“When she wasn't home with her family, she was down in this barn, riding in that arena and looking after her horses.”

— Jack Hodge, Stephanie's father and ranch owner

“You feel violated, is what you feel like.”

— Jack Hodge, Stephanie's father and ranch owner

“When he comes back, I'll probably feed him, like, a lot of treats.”

— Colton Burns, Stephanie's 12-year-old twin son

What’s next

The King County Sheriff's Office is investigating the theft and is asking anyone with information to contact them and reference case C26009773.

The takeaway

The theft of Stephanie Burns' beloved horse Ruben has compounded the family's grief following her recent passing, leaving them feeling violated and robbed of another piece of their daughter's legacy. The community is rallying to help bring Ruben home and provide some comfort to Stephanie's twin sons during this difficult time.