Grey tote bag found near Java House, Ped Mall
Description
Found a grey canvas tote bag this afternoon around 3:15 pm on the Ped Mall near Java House, downtown Iowa City. It's a Madewell tote with black leather handles, medium size, and a few scuffs along the bottom. Inside you'll find a bright yellow notebook, a black USB-C charger, and a pink gel pen with a tiny enamel guitar pin on the inner pocket. There's a small coffee ring on the front pocket and a faded sticker that says 'Iowa City Rocks'—unique features to help identify it. If this is yours or you know who it belongs to, I’d love to get it back and can meet up around Clinton Street or the library steps to return it.
Approximate found location
Pin shows an approximate area, not the exact spot — to protect privacy.
How to safely return this item
A short checklist to protect you and the item during the handoff.
Verify the owner before handing it back
- Ask the claimant for a specific identifying detail before confirming.
- If valuable, ask for a photo with matching ID, receipt, or original packaging.
- Never post the precise location publicly. Share it only with a verified owner.
- Do not accept payment to return it. That is a red flag for a scam claim.
Meet in a safe, public place
- Police stations, café entrances, transport hubs, and shop foyers all work.
- Meet during daylight hours where there is CCTV and foot traffic.
- Avoid private homes, car parks at night, or isolated locations.
Bring someone with you
- Tell a friend or family member where you are meeting and when.
- Share your live location with them during the handoff.
- For high-value items, consider contacting your local police station for advice first.
Keep communication on lostandfound.io
- Use the in-app message thread so there is a record if something goes wrong.
- Do not move to WhatsApp, SMS, or email until you have exchanged a verifying detail.
- Never share bank details, government ID numbers, or copies of your ID.