Specific Makes, Models Targeted In Rash Of Pittsburgh Vehicle Thefts

PITTSBURGH, PA — Police are investigating the theft of at least 10 vehicles in city neighborhoods overnight. All but one of the thefts was either a Kia or Hyundai, which police believe are being targeted because a security vulnerability in certain models make them easier to steal.

Officers observed at least four of the vehicles driving erratically at dangerously high speeds on the North Side. Two of them were found crashed and abandoned at Eckert Street and Shadeland Avenue.

The suspects, believed to be juveniles, fled on foot.

No arrests have been made.

In order to try to thwart additional thefts, Pittsburgh police provided the following tips:

• Never leave a vehicle running and unlocked, even to run a quick errand
• Always ensure all vehicle doors are locked and windows closed. Most thieves take the path of least resistance, going from car to car looking for unlocked doors at night
• Kia and Hyundai owners should take advantage of the manufacturer’s recall and security updates and/or use a club lock to immobilize the steering wheel
• Invest in technology such as Apple Air Tags, inexpensive GPS trackers that connect to cell phone apps, or utilize individual vehicle manufacturers’ security and tracking technology when possible
• Install outdoor security camera systems trained toward where the vehicle is parked
• Bluetooth enabled dashboard cameras can be useful tools to help catch car thieves
• If Kia or Hyundai models must be parked in a driveway, police advise blocking them in with another vehicle when possible
• Never leave firearms inside a vehicle under any circumstance.