Burglars hit 21 cars in Apex subdivision

APEX, NC (WTVD) -- Apex police are reminding residents to keep their car doors locked after thieves broke into and stole from 21 vehicles in a single subdivision.

It happened in the Miramonte neighborhood late Wednesday night into Thursday morning.

All of the vehicles targeted were left unlocked, with valuables sitting in plain sight said Capt. Ann Stephens with the Apex Police Dept.

"It's very quick," she said. "I mean within 15 seconds they can be in your car, take your property, and be on to the next one."

Apex police are investigating the 21 break-ins but have not named any suspects. The department has tried campaigns in the past reminding people who live in the fairly quiet town that even they need to lock the car doors to protect their property.

"We've done a lot to try to get the message out to people that it's so simple to prevent and you prevent it by locking your car," Stephens said.

Crooks have been targeting vehicles across the Triangle in recent weeks including in Durham and Cary where someone broke into nearly 20 vehicles in one night.

At Miramonte Thursday morning, officers said they found a stolen car likely dumped by the culprits who stole it from Holly Springs when the owner left the keys in it.

Neighbors unaffected by the late night break-in spree feel even they will now need to put up their guard.

"It creates a safety issue for everyone in the neighborhood because it makes us seem like we're vulnerable," said Kristen Wolf.

Apex police offer plenty of ways for you to prevent becoming a victim. They encourage all residents to park in well-lit areas, hide valuables or take them inside when you go, and most importantly owners need to lock their car doors.

If you see any suspicious activity, call Apex police on the non-emergency line: (919) 362-8661.