Guns stolen from vehicles remains a persistent problem in Nashville.
A review of stolen gun reports in Nashville from Sunday, June 20, through Saturday, June 26, shows that 26 guns were stolen from cars and trucks.
These guns are routinely taken from autos in parking garages and those parked outside night clubs, private residences, hotels, and short term rental properties. Those involved in these thefts are often young people who later use these weapons in violent criminal acts, including homicide. So far this year, 512 guns have been stolen from vehicles.
Going hand in hand with vehicle burglaries is vehicle theft. A review of stolen vehicle reports in Nashville during this same reporting period shows that 75% of the automobiles taken (44 of 55) were easy targets because the keys were left inside or made available to thieves. Three of the 55 vehicles stolen were left running without the driver present. Just like guns taken from vehicles, these stolen autos are also routinely involved in additional criminal activities, including carjackings and robberies.
The MNPD strongly encourage Nashvillians to lock their automobile doors, secure any valuables---especially guns, and remove the keys. These simple actions will go a long way in preventing crime and could very well save a life.