VIDEO: Vehicle Theft on the Rise in North Tonawanda, Residents Urged to Be Vigilant

Early this morning, June 5th, a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas SUV was stolen from a driveway on 7th Avenue. According to the North Tonawanda Police Department, this marks the third reported vehicle theft in recent weeks.

The incident occurred around 4:00am when a black male exited a white Jeep with tinted windows and black rims and proceeded to steal the victim's vehicle. The stolen SUV is a black 2019 Volkswagen Atlas with New York license plate number LUU 5981. The victim, owned by a female resident, is without a vehicle and distraught over the incident.

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Officer Hussey of the North Tonawanda Police Department confirmed the increasing trend of vehicle thefts in the area, stating that this was his third report of a similar crime in a short period.

"This is definitely a worrying trend," stated concerned resident, Mary Johnson, who lives a few blocks away from where the theft occurred. "We’ve always felt safe in this neighborhood, but hearing about these car thefts makes you think twice. We need to be more aware and look out for each other.”

The North Tonawanda Police Department is investigating the incident and encourages anyone with information to come forward. They are particularly urging residents with security cameras, especially those facing the street, to review their footage from the early morning hours of June 5th.

“We understand the anxiety these thefts are causing within the community,” said Officer Hussey. “We are dedicating resources to address this issue and are working diligently to identify and apprehend those responsible. The public's help is invaluable in these situations. Any information, no matter how small, could be the key to solving this case.”

As with all vehicle theft incidents, the Niagara Action recommends the following preventative measures:

-Always lock your vehicle

-Install a car alarm or immobilizer if your vehicle does not already have one

-Park in well-lit areas

-Remove valuables from sight

The stolen 2019 Volkswagen Atlas represents more than just a vehicle to its owner; it is a crucial asset for daily life, used for transportation to work, errands, and other essential activities. The community is rallying behind the victim, hoping for the safe return of her vehicle.

Again, the NTPD is urging anyone with information about the stolen vehicle, white Jeep involved, or any suspicious activity in the 7th Avenue area to contact them immediately.

VIDEO: Vehicle Theft on the Rise in North Tonawanda, Residents Urged to Be Vigilant