At a Glance
- Three unlocked cars were burglarized on Somerdale Avenue in Gloucester Township around 5:45 a.m. Sunday
- Surveillance video shows suspects pulling handles and moving on when doors are locked
- No arrests announced
- Why it matters: Police urge residents to lock vehicles as simple step prevents theft
Gloucester Township police have released surveillance footage showing thieves prowling a quiet Somerdale Avenue neighborhood before dawn, burglarizing three unlocked vehicles and underscoring a recurring message: lock your car doors.
Video Captures Early-Morning Crime Spree
The footage, posted by investigators, timestamps the first break-in at 5:45 a.m. Sunday. A figure approaches an unlocked sedan, opens the driver-side door, and disappears inside. Within seconds the suspect emerges carrying items, then quietly closes the door and slips away into the darkness.
The same camera angle captures the group methodically testing other vehicles. Each suspect walks up, yanks a handle, and-when met with resistance-simply moves to the next car. Locked doors stop them cold; unlocked ones invite a quick search for valuables.
Three Cars Hit in Minutes
Police confirmed that a total of three unlocked cars were entered during the brief spree. Officers canvassing the block later Sunday morning found no signs of forced entry on any of the targeted vehicles, reinforcing that the thieves relied solely on drivers’ oversight.
Items taken were not specified in the initial report, but surveillance shows at least one suspect clutching small objects while retreating from the sedan.
No Arrests Yet
Authorities have not announced any arrests or released descriptions of the suspects beyond what appears in the video. Investigators ask anyone with additional footage or information to contact Gloucester Township Police Department’s criminal investigations division.
Police Renew Lock-Your-Doors Warning
The department’s public reminder echoes a seasonal refrain: burglars often bypass locked vehicles rather than risk noise or delay. The Sunday incident, caught on a residential camera, provides a textbook example of how quickly thieves can work when opportunity presents itself.
Key Takeaways
- Locking vehicle doors remains the simplest deterrent against opportunistic theft
- Surveillance footage can aid investigations even when crimes occur in seconds
- Police encourage residents to report suspicious activity immediately rather than waiting
Meta description: Gloucester Township police share video of thieves looting unlocked cars at 5:45 a.m. Sunday, urging drivers to lock up.
