In recent weeks, a rash of car wheel thefts has expanded to Walnut Creek, adding to the list of Bay Area communities now being targeted by these brazen criminals. Vehicle owners in Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, and Petaluma have also reported their cars stripped down to their hubs, sparking concern among residents and law enforcement officials alike. The thieves are known to strike apartment complexes, mostly at night, and are specifically targeting Honda and Toyota models.
One victim, who wished to remain anonymous, shared her harrowing experience after discovering her car had been stripped of its wheels. „My daughter said ‘Mom, why don’t you have any tires’,“ she recounted. Her vehicle was one of two targeted in an apartment complex on Walker Avenue in Walnut Creek. Reflecting on the incident, she admitted that she had not installed tire locks, a precaution that could have potentially deterred the thieves or slowed down their operation.
Neighbors in the area have also been affected by the recent wave of car wheel thefts. Patrick Perucho, a resident at a neighboring apartment complex, expressed his fear and concern for those who rely on their vehicles for transportation. „It really made me scared, because that’s our main way of transportation. Without it, my mom couldn’t get to her job. Without it, I couldn’t get to my job,“ he shared.
In response to these crimes, police in Walnut Creek are actively investigating the incidents and advising car owners to take precautions to protect their vehicles. They recommend parking in well-lit areas and considering the installation of motion-activated lights or cameras as a deterrent to potential thieves. Additionally, they suggest investing in lug locks for wheels as an added layer of security.
The recent surge in car wheel thefts has left residents in Walnut Creek on edge, prompting them to be more vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their vehicles. As the investigation continues, community members are urged to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement and take necessary steps to protect their property. With collaboration between residents and police, efforts can be made to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety and security of the community.