Columbia Police Chief W.H. ‘Skip’ Holbrook announces that CPD officers are investigating a series of auto-breaking incidents affecting the Old Woodlands and Burnside Drive neighborhoods this week.
The incidents have occurred on Wednesday, June 26, 2019, at the following locations:
- 600 block of Burnside Drive
- 6000 block of Saye Cut Road
- 400 block of Prince Wales Drive
- 300 block of Old Woodlands Road
The crimes have occurred during various times of the evening and overnight hours. In many of the cases, the vehicle doors were unlocked. In one case, the suspect (s) smashed a window to get inside of the vehicle. In another case, a bag was stolen but recovered close to the crime scene by CPD officers. Many of the victims reported that the suspect (s) rummaged through their vehicles but didn’t steal anything.
CPD investigators want to identify and locate three males who are seen in surveillance pictures to speak with them about the crimes. The effort is to determine if they have information to aid investigators with the on-going investigation.
Auto-Breaking Prevention tips:
- Always lock your vehicle’s doors
- Close windows/sunroof
- Do not leave valuables in plain view
- Consider anti-theft security device / alarm
If your vehicle is stolen:
- Call 9-1-1
- Make sure you know the license plate and vehicle’s VIN number
- If you see someone stealing your car, try to get a good description of the suspect (s).
It’s also beneficial to take a picture of your vehicle and VIN number for record keeping purposes. You can give the picture to law enforcement to aid in the vehicle’s recovery.
*Report auto-breaking or larceny incidents to your local law enforcement agency*
Citizens with information about the incidents or males in the surveillance pictures are encouraged to contact CRIMESTOPPERS in any of the following ways:
CALL toll-free, 888-CRIME-SC.
LOG onto: www.midlandscrimestoppers.com, and click on the red “Submit a tip” tab.
DOWNLOAD the new P3 Tips App for Apple or Android devices.