A string of vehicle break-ins reported at two university properties in Chapel Hill led UNC Police to alert the public on Wednesday afternoon.

A message through the university’s AlertCarolina system said campus police are investigating break-ins reported at the SECU Family House — which offers alternative lodging for UNC Hospital patients and their families off Old Mason Farm Road — and the Friday Center park and ride parking lot off Raleigh Road. The alert said the most recent break-ins were reported at between 1 and 2 p.m., with UNC’s Crime Log that tracks 911 saying an additional report for the Friday Center was made on June 25.

Wednesday’s message said an investigation into the break-ins is ongoing, but no further information — including whether they are connected — is being made available.

With the rash of crimes, the UNC Police Department is encouraging those who use those facilities and other campus parking lots to follow good practices for safety. Drivers are urged to always lock their vehicles and keep windows rolled up when they are not around, and not to leave any valuable items visible in the vehicle. Additionally, if a car has an alarm system, UNC Police recommend making sure it is active when leaving the vehicle. Concerned drivers can also try to park in public, well-lit locations where the vehicle can be easily seen by others.

Anyone with information regarding the break-ins at SECU Family House or the Friday Center park and ride is encouraged to call 911 or the UNC Police Department on the non-emergency assistance line (919-962-8100). If you see anyone acting suspiciously around vehicles or parking lots, you are encouraged to report it to the appropriate authorities by calling 911.

 

Featured photo by the Chapel Hill Media Group.

Chapelboro.com does not charge subscription fees, and you can directly support our efforts in local journalism here. Want more of what you see on Chapelboro? Let us bring free local news and community information to you by signing up for our newsletter.

Related Stories
‹
Multiple UNC Football Players Facing Reckless Driving Charges
Several UNC football players are facing charges of reckless driving, speeding and other violations. An investigation by WRAL, originally published Monday afternoon, reported that “nearly 20 percent” of UNC’s 101-man roster has been cited for speeding since October of 2024. The investigation named three specific players: linebacker Khmori House, safety Gavin Gibson and cornerback Thaddeus […]
No More Coal? Chapel Hill Prepares for Hearing on UNC's Co-Gen Plant and Potential New Fuel Source
Chapel Hill Town Hall will host a hearing on Thursday to take comments on a potential alternative fuel source for UNC's cogeneration plant.
UNC Police Charge 1 for Drug Possession, Resisting Arrest in Front of Library
The UNC Police Department charged an Orange County resident, who is not affiliated with the university, for drug possession and resisting arrest on Monday night. Public safety officials shared a statement on Wednesday afternoon confirming the incident to the campus community, saying UNC Police officers responded to a complaint of drug use near the entrance […]
During Bike Month, Chapel Hill Highlights Resources to Expand Bicycle Use and Improve Safety
Alongside the town's Vison Zero efforts through Vision Zero, Chapel Hill Transit offers trip coordination using its bus routes and greenways.
UNC Reports More Than $17 Million in Direct Economic Impact from Savannah Bananas Visit
According to a release from UNC, the recent visit from the Savannah Bananas to Chapel Hill generated an estimated $17.1 million.
Bicyclist Injured By Driver Along NC Highway 54 in Chapel Hill
A driver struck and injured a bicyclist on N.C. Highway 54 on Thursday evening. Police later cited them for a failure to reduce speed.
On Air Today: The 2026 DTH-Chron Rivalry Challenge!
The annual DTH vs Chron Rivalry Challenge is a UNC-Duke competition to see which fan base can donate the most to student journalism.
UNC Police: 'Multiple' Scooter, Bike Thefts on Reported Campus in October
At least seven reports of stolen e-scooters, bicycles, and e-bikes in the month of October led UNC Police to issue a campus-wide alert.
New Chapel Hill Crosswalk Under Construction at Site of Past Pedestrian Collisions
The Town of Chapel Hill and North Carolina Department of Transportation partnered to add a crosswalk, pedestrian island and RRFBs (rectangular rapid flashing beacons) to Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.
UNC Warns of Vehicle Break-Ins at SECU Family House, Friday Center Park and Ride
A string of vehicle break-ins reported at two university properties in Chapel Hill led UNC Police to alert the public on Wednesday afternoon.
›