Free locks to Kia, Hyundai owners after several car thefts

The Wake Forest Police Department is partnering with Hyundai Motor Group to offer a limited number of free steering wheel locks to qualifying Hyundai and Kia vehicle owners. The initiative is designed to combat the increase in motor vehicle thefts, resulting from a social media trend showing how to start Hyundai and Kia vehicles without a key.
Officials say there has been a nationwide increase in Hyundai and Kia vehicle thefts particularly those built before November 1, 2021, without an engine immobilizer. The affected vehicles are Hyundai’s and Kia’s that require a steel key to be started.
Donated to the Wake Forest Department by Hyundai Motor Group, the steering wheel locks are free and available on a first come, first serve basis to Wake Forest residents who have vehicle models meeting the criteria.
The donation is part of the response to serious incidents the night of May 10-11 when police say 17 residents reported their vehicles were broken into Wednesday night and Thursday morning. In at least three cases, the suspects stole guns, while in another case a vehicle was stolen. That vehicle is described as a gray 2011 Hyundai Sonata with Maryland registration plate 9BM4465. It was recovered the following afternoon by the Morrisville Police Department.
At approximately 3:30 a.m., officers responded to a reported car break-in along the 1800 block of South Franklin Street. Upon their arrival, officers observed two suspicious individuals fleeing the scene. A brief vehicle pursuit ensued which ended near the intersection of South Franklin Street and Rogers Road when the suspect vehicle crashed. That vehicle was determined to have been stolen from Morrisville.
After crashing the stolen vehicle, the subjects fled south on foot across Rogers Road onto the Smith Creek Greenway where they escaped.
Police conducted a K9 track which resulted in the recovery of various items, including two of the three stolen guns. Officers are continuing to canvass the area searching for other stolen items.
Anyone who encounters the stolen vehicle or discovers weapons or other items that may be related to the break-ins are urged to call 9-1-1 immediately. In addition, anyone with information about last night’s car break-ins is urged to call the Police Department Tip Line at 919-435-9610. You may remain anonymous.
In the meantime, officials are again reminding residents to lock their vehicles and remove all valuables from inside – especially handguns and other firearms.
“We know criminals are looking to get guns, then using those guns to commit other crimes in our community,” said Police Chief Jeff Leonard. “Please do not leave weapons in your vehicles.”
To receive a free steering wheel lock, vehicle owners will be required to schedule an appointment and provide registration to verify ownership of a Hyndai or Kia. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 919-554-6150 or email Officer Richard May at rmay@wakeforestnc.gov.
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