The Chapel Hill Police Department is investigating a spike in vehicle break-ins around town early Saturday morning. Police reported “about 60” break-ins which occurred between 3 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. along major routes like Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and Raleigh Road. Most of the break-ins reportedly happened in hotel and apartment complex parking lots, with suspects smashing windows to get inside vehicles.

“We’re asking community members to check their home and business camera recordings for any signs of people breaking into cars,” said Chapel Hill Chief of Police Celisa Lehew. “Call 911 to connect with our investigators who will walk you through an easy way to share video.”

Police say they are investigating similarities among the cases and whether they are connected to other recent break-ins in Chapel Hill and across the Triangle. Chapel Hill Police arrested three juveniles for a series of break-ins the morning of Aug. 25. Earlier in August, the police department announced the formation of a dedicated team to investigate break-ins around town.

Police are encouraging the public to take the following steps to lower their risk of being victimized by a break-in:

  • Always lock your car doors and windows
  • Do not leave keys, valuables or bags inside you car
  • Never leave a gun in your car
  • Park in well-lit and well-traveled areas when possible
  • Never leave your car running and unattended

“We know how frustrating and violating it is to wake up and find your vehicle damaged and your belongings taken,” Lehew said. “Our dedicated team is working these cases, reviewing evidence, and looking for connections, all to identify those responsible for this.”

Anyone who has information related to the break-ins is encouraged to contact the Chapel Hill Police Department. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the Chapel Hill-Carrboro-UNC Crimestoppers at 919-942-7515 or at their website here.

 

Featured image via Wikimedia Commons

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