The city of Philadelphia has been experiencing a troubling trend in recent weeks, with multiple reports of tire thefts from parked vehicles. The most recent incidents have occurred in South Philadelphia, where several cars have fallen victim to this crime. Police have been working diligently to apprehend the perpetrators and bring justice to those affected by these thefts.
One such incident took place on the 1800 block of South Water Street, where two thieves were caught in the act of trying to steal tires from a 2017 Honda Fit. The suspects, identified as 21-year-old Josueth Laureano-Montoyo and a 17-year-old male, were seen next to a 2006 Toyota Scion with its hood and trunk open. While the Scion was not missing any tires, the Fit parked nearby was found lifted on two jacks with one tire missing. The suspects were arrested on the scene, and the owner of the Fit was able to confirm that her tire was found in the trunk of the suspects‘ vehicle.
In another incident reported on Tuesday, Aug. 20, a woman returned to her vehicle parked near 1 Jackson Street to find all four tires and rims missing from her 2023 black Ford Explorer. The estimated value of the theft was $7,000, leaving the owner, Dana Howlett, devastated. Howlett expressed her frustration at the lack of surveillance cameras in the area, calling for increased security measures to prevent future thefts.
The community has rallied behind Howlett, with neighbors signing a petition with over 1,500 signatures urging City Council member Mark Squilla to install cameras in the area. Squilla acknowledged the concerns and stated that efforts were being made to address the issue in collaboration with law enforcement and relevant agencies. However, the thefts have continued to occur at various locations in South Philadelphia, including the 2200 block of South Front Street, 200 block of Wolf Street, 700 block of South Front Street, 900 block of South Front Street, and 800 block of South Water Street.
As the tire thefts persist, residents like Howlett are left feeling vulnerable and frustrated by the lack of action taken to address the issue. With the community coming together to demand increased security measures, it is hoped that authorities will take swift action to prevent further incidents and bring those responsible to justice. In the meantime, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police to help combat this troubling trend in the city.