The Dover Police Department is issuing an alert to Hyundai vehicle owners due to an increase in thefts and attempted thefts of Hyundai Elantras and Sonatas. In the past 7-10 days, the Dover Police Department has investigated at least five incidents of attempted vehicle thefts or successful vehicle thefts of these makes and models of vehicles, specifically 2015-2017 model years. The suspects are using a method of “hot wiring” the vehicles to steal them. To prevent additional incidents, the Dover Police Department is not disclosing the details of the “hot wiring” method that the suspects are using.
Two vehicles were locked by the owners prior to the theft, but the majority of the vehicles were left unsecured. Incidents have occurred at all times of the day, to include daylight hours.
The following images are of two suspects and the interior of a stolen vehicle from an incident that occurred on June 28th in Silver Lake Park where the suspects crashed the stolen vehicle into a pole and fled.
Tips to Prevent Automobile Theft
- Park in a garage if possible.
- Park so that your vehicle is “blocked in” your driveway.
- Park in well-lit areas/Utilize motion activated lights/cameras outside your home if possible
- Lock and secure homes and garage doors. Doors left unlocked allow vehicle theft suspects an opportunity to search for keys and steal vehicles undetected.
- Close and lock all windows and doors when you park. Most vehicle thefts can be prevented by locking your car doors.
- Secure your valuables.
- DO NOT leave your keys in your vehicle. Keys and FOBs should NEVER be left in a vehicle, whether at home, work, or running errands. Take your keys with you!
- DO NOT leave your vehicle running unattended. Warming your car up on a cold winter morning or going inside a convenience store while your car is left running and unattended, make you vulnerable. A car thief is looking for these easy targets!
For additional vehicle theft prevention tips, visit NHTSA VEHICLE THEFT PREVENTION
If you wish to provide information on this case or other criminal activity, please contact the Dover Police Department at (302)736-7130. Callers may remain anonymous. Tips may also be submitted to law enforcement through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or online at delaware.crimestoppersweb.com; a cash reward is possible for information leading to an arrest.
If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and are in need of assistance, the Dover Police Victim Services Unit is available to provide help and guidance. You can contact the Victim Services Unit at 302-736-7134 or by email at: Diane.Glenn@cj.state.de.us
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