Multiple cars broken into at Chesterfield gym
CHESTERFIELD, VA (WWBT) - The hunt is on for the thieves behind four smash-and-grabs at two separate gym parking lots in just one week. They are bold, getting in and out in minutes.
"It's absurd," said Davina Hernandez, who was just informed of the thefts.
At least three separate cars were broken into and stripped of someone's valuables outside of Gold's Gym, at the Shops at Arboretum near Midlothian Turnpike.
"It's kind of freaky," said Nouya Small, who works in the same shopping center as one of the targeted gyms.
"When you're in a parking lot somewhere do you think this can happen to me? No you don't, but you have to though. Nowadays, you have to," said Davina Hernandez who just learned of the thefts.
Two days ago at the ACAC gym on Robious road, a van window was smashed, and cash and credit cards were pocketed. The stolen cards were used in town before the victim even knew their van was damaged.
"You can't control other people's actions, so you have to take it upon yourself," said Hernandez.
Experts say don't leave important items in your car, and especially don't leave them in plain sight.
Consider getting a car alarm - the noise alone may scare the bad guys off before they go any further.
Try to park in busy areas that have plenty of light, so the intruder will know someone may see him if he targets your ride.
"A lot of people think they're comfortable because of the area, but I wouldn't trust it," said Dontae Taliafero who just learned of the thefts. "Really, you're not safe anywhere?"
As the search is on for suspects, remember to stay mindful.
Experts say also be careful of what you place in your trunk, as bad guys sometimes scout busy parking lots looking for the very items you're trying to hide.
Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to call Crime Solvers at (804) 748-0660.
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