Chapel Hill police investigate nearly 60 overnight vehicle break-ins
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Chapel Hill Police Department is investigating a spike in vehicle break-ins reported overnight.
Police said about 60 vehicle break-ins were reported in various areas along major routes, including Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Raleigh Road.
"We're asking community members to check their home and business camera recordings for any signs of people breaking into cars. Call 911 to connect with our investigators, who will walk you through an easy way to share video," said Celisa Lehew, chief of police.
The vehicle break-ins occurred primarily in hotel and apartment complex parking lots. In many cases, suspects smashed windows to gain entry to vehicles.
Investigators are examining similarities among the cases and whether they may be connected to other recent vehicle break-ins in Chapel Hill and across the Triangle.
Police said several arrests were made Aug. 25 in connection with vehicle break-ins in Chapel Hill.
Officers are urging residents to take the following steps to reduce the risk of a vehicle break-in:
- Always lock car doors and windows.
- Do not leave keys, valuables, or bags inside vehicles.
- Never leave a gun in a vehicle.
- Park in well-lit, well-traveled areas when possible.
- Never leave a vehicle running and unattended.
Anyone with information can submit an anonymous tip through Chapel Hill-Carrboro-UNC Crimestoppers at (919)-942-7515.
