Increasing Risk for Older Vehicles Amid Car Theft Surge
Recent reports highlight a troubling trend: car thefts are soaring, particularly targeting older SUVs and trucks, even during the day. In Cambridge, high-end models have been the primary victims, but now, older vehicles are also at risk. Residents are urged to be vigilant as thieves are increasingly targeting these older models in broad daylight.
Tim Cross’s shocking experience exemplifies the current issue. Last Friday, he witnessed his 1999 GMC Yukon being stolen from his driveway in broad daylight. Despite his car’s doors being locked, the thieves managed to drive away, prompting a police chase that had to be abandoned for safety reasons.
Statistics from Waterloo Regional Police reveal a disturbing rise in thefts of late 1990s to early 2000s GMC and Chevrolet models, with several incidents involving similar tactics. Recent attempts to steal such vehicles have been reported frequently in Kitchener and Waterloo, often involving damage to the ignition system while the vehicle owners retained their keys. The preference for daytime thefts in residential driveways and commercial areas highlights the need for heightened security measures.
To protect your vehicle, consider implementing additional security measures such as steering wheel locks, theft alarms, and GPS trackers. Also, remember to remove valuables from your car and remain cautious, especially when parking in less secure areas. Tim Cross plans to install an engine kill switch to enhance his vehicle’s security, which may be a prudent step for other vehicle owners as well.