INDIAN TRAIL, N.C. โ Three firearms were stolen amid a string of vehicle break-ins Tuesday in Indian Trail, according to the Union County Sheriff's Office.
Deputies responded to the Brandon Oaks subdivision after more than 20 vehicles were broken into. The sheriff's office said each vehicle was unlocked with valuables inside.
New data released Monday by the FBI shows motor vehicle theft shot up nearly 13% between 2022 and 2023. The motor vehicle theft rate โ nearly 319 per 100,000 people โ was the highest last year since 2007.
The UCSO is urging neighbors to be vigilant and outlined safety tips in a post on Facebook Tuesday. Those tips include always locking vehicles, removing valuables, and using outdoor lighting and cameras to deter suspects and later identify them.
Residents are being asked to share any security footage of photographs that may help deputies identify a suspect. Tips can also be called into Union County Crime Stoppers at (704) 283-5600 or submitted through the office's free smartphone app.