Car theft on the rise in Philadelphia, police say

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) – It is a crime that is becoming very common on the streets of Philadelphia. Investigators say car thefts have shot up and those suspected of committing these crimes have become more fearless.

“I turned around and they pointed the guns at me, asked for my wallet, my keys and my phone,” said John Greco, the victim of a car theft.

Greco said two guns were aimed at his head outside his home at block 8300 Dorcas Street in Rhawnhurst on Sunday around 7:30 pm

Greco said he was going to work when two men jumped out of a burgundy SUV, each holding a gun, and demanded the phone, wallet and car keys before leaving in his car.

“I was shocked. I was shocked to have this type of weapon. People are shot like that,” said Greco.

Greco said he is lucky to be alive to tell the story that so many others in the city have had to live, as car thefts are increasing in Philadelphia by an almost 100% increase in the past two years.

In 2019 there were 225 car thefts, in 410 there were 410, and in 2021, the police said that 28 car thefts had already occurred.

Now Greco’s neighbor has said he calls his mother before stopping in the garage after work, fearful for his own life.

“We live next to each other, but it happened right in front of my car. So now, when I stop at night, I’m afraid to get out of my car and a few meters from my door because it happened right here,” said Kristy Newell, neighbor of Greco.

In the past few years, in almost 200 of these car thefts, no weapons have been used, police said.

The Philadelphia police sent a list to Action News about ways to prevent a car theft:

– Park in well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings
– Equip your vehicle with an anti-theft device
– Lock the doors while driving or parking

– Avoid driving alone at night when possible
– Don’t stop for strangers apparently lost on the road. Note their location and stop in a safe spot as soon as you stop by for help.

What to do after an attack

If you are threatened with a gun, give up your car. Your life is worth more than the vehicle. Try to write down as many of the car thief’s physical characteristics as possible so that you can provide a detailed report when you call the police. As always, doing your best to avoid a potentially dangerous situation is the best way to prevent an attack. Always carry a cell phone with you when leaving the vehicle and use common sense when driving and parking in unfamiliar areas.

The police recovered Greco’s car, but those responsible remain at large. Police said the men were aged between 17 and 21. They were driving a new burgundy SUV model with an unknown parent license plate, police said.