Police Find Stolen Vehicle on Blocks

‘Don’t leave your keys in your car,’ they say. ‘Someone will drive off in it.’ And while we’re sure that it happens somewhere, that place certainly isn’t San Angelo, and definitely not in our own front yards. Plus, it’ll only take a second to run inside and grab something. It’ll be fine.

Countless of us have undoubtedly had these thoughts before, and countless of us were right (then), but as one San Angeloan recently found out, it only takes a few minutes to jump in a car and steal it.

The theft took place on Dec. 7 at approximately 6:30 p.m., on E. 22nd Street. The driver of the car had left his red 2001 Ford F-150 running and went inside the residence for a brief period when he heard his engine accelerate.  As the victim looked outside, he saw his truck being driven away by an unknown person.  Among the stolen items inside the truck were assorted Christmas gifts, a cell phone, 3 Cowboys vs. Eagles tickets, cash, and several stage lights and other equipment, which was slated to be used in an upcoming Church production of “The First Christmas: Away in a Manger” at Segunda Iglesia Bautista located at 530 W. Ave T

On Dec. 8 at approximately 10:30 p.m., San Angelo Police were called to a north alley of W. 26th Street for the report of an illegally parked vehicle.  Upon arrival, officers observed a red truck sitting up on cinder blocks with its tires and wheels removed.   A check of the vehicle confirmed it was the previously reported stolen Ford F-150. 

Officers contacted the victim who arrived at the scene a short time later.  After inventorying the truck, the victim confirmed his personal belongings and the stage lights were missing from the vehicle. 

If you have any information about this case, the location of the stolen items or the suspects involved, call Detective Michael Gaeta at 325-657-4387.  To remain anonymous, call 1-855-TIPS-247.  You can also text your tips, text “TIP SAPD” plus the info to 888777.  You can submit Tips online at http://local.nixle.com/tip/san-angelo-police-department/