Last week, a resident of Fishtown’s Oxford Street found her SUV gone, and the trail of stolen packages that followed has put the neighborhood on high alert. Kristina Kelly, a local mother, told NBC10 that she is angry and on the hunt after a thief stole her SUV, and police say the same suspect is behind several package thefts in the area.
The Theft
Surveillance video shows the suspect entering the unlocked car with a second key still inside, and eventually driving off. The footage captured the suspect approaching the vehicle, slipping a key into the ignition, and leaving the scene. The SUV was last seen on Oxford Street, and the vehicle was reported stolen the following day.
The Recovery
The next day, authorities located the SUV stashed on Kensington Avenue. The vehicle was missing the owner’s wallet, a money box from a craft show, and her daughter’s Christmas gifts.
Community Response
Kelly posted a photo of the missing items on social media, and responses started flying in. People began posting that they believe the suspect is also stealing packages. “I saw one the other day where somebody’s dinner was delivered and somebody went and took it off their porch, so it’s a big problem,” said Claire Tillman-Shaffer of Fishtown.
Police Investigation
Kelly told NBC10 that according to police, the same man is linked to several package thefts in Fishtown and surrounding neighborhoods. Investigators confirm the vehicle theft and said they’re also looking into these other cases. According to police in the 26th District, there have been 204 reported package thefts this year so far. In November, there were 21, the second-highest monthly total. During November of 2024, 13, the lowest monthly total of that year.
The Suspect’s Threat
Kelly is still searching for the suspected car/package thief because she said he still has her key. “I’m still on alert, cause he still has my car key. So he could potentially come back,” said Kelly.
Key Takeaways
- The stolen SUV is linked to multiple package thefts.
- Police have identified 204 package thefts in the 26th District this year.
- The suspect still possesses the stolen key and remains a threat.
The stolen SUV and the ongoing package theft investigation highlight a growing concern in Fishtown. Residents remain vigilant, and authorities are working to bring the suspect to justice.
