A Summer Spike in Car Thefts, Break-Ins in Northfield

The Northfield Police Department is warning about a spike in car thefts and burglaries in the city since June 1st.

Traditionally, there is a nationwide increase of up to 40% in car thefts and burglaries in summer.

Northfield Police Warn of Car Thefts & Burglaries

In a Facebook post, Northfield Police point to a marked increase in burglarized vehicles this summer. Since June 1st, police have responded to over 30 vehicles that have been broken into or vandalized after the driver left the doors unlocked.

Police also noticed an increase in stolen vehicles, saying that seven vehicles have been stolen in that same time period.

Police are also reporting that certain types of vehicles are popular with car thieves.

The Most Stolen Car Makes

Northfield Police are finding that Hyundai and Kia vehicles seem to be the ones that thieves are focused on.

Hyundai and Kia vehicles are heavily targeted by thieves because millions of these vehicles manufactured between 2011 and 2021 lack standard engine immobilizers.

This design flaw allows criminals to easily bypass the ignition using simple tools, a vulnerability made infamous by viral social media trends like the "Kia Challenge".

Most vehicles targeted Have Common Factor

Even more than a specific make or model, the vehicles being targeted the most are the ones being left unlocked or with valuables obviously left in them.

These 'crimes of opportunity', as the police call them, make easy pickings for thieves looking for an easy mark.

Statistics show you are several times more likely to have your car burglarized if you leave it unlocked, as police data consistently shows that 80%  to 90%of all vehicle break-ins happen on unlocked vehicles.

Because approximately 30% of drivers leave their cars unsecured, an unlocked vehicle essentially acts as an open invitation to opportunists who routinely check door handles and skip locked cars entirely.

Tips to Keep Your Vehicle Safe

Northfield Police list these tips to help keep your vehicle safe from thieves.

If you witness suspicious activity, contact the Northfield Police Department right away at 609-641-3122 or, in an emergency, at 911.