The Bradenton Police Department (BPD) has issued a warning for Kia and Hyundai vehicle owners following a spate of car thefts and attempted thefts in the area. Four teenagers have been arrested in connection with these crimes, as reported by WFLA News Channel 8. The BPD has recorded 12 thefts and 14 attempts to steal these particular car models since August.
Surveillance footage shows the suspects attempting to break into these vehicles, which lack an immobilizer—a device that prevents the engine from starting without the correct key. The Bradenton Police have shared a video on social media as a warning, stating that "The teenagers in the video were driving stolen cars, and attempting to steal a third vehicle." This trend has prompted the department to remind owners to be vigilant, lock their vehicles, and park in well-lit areas with surveillance cameras when possible, as per Bradenton Police Department's Facebook post.
Specifically, Kias from model years 2011-2021 and Hyundais from 2015-2021 are being targeted. According to a news release by FOX 13 News, these models can be upgraded with anti-theft software or steering wheel locks to help mitigate this risk. Owners of these vehicles can find out more about the upgrades by visiting the respective Kia and Hyundai customer care websites.
Amidst rising concerns, Kia and Hyundai have responded by offering solutions to enhance security. The Bradenton Police Department’s Facebook page shares links to these services, guiding car owners to the procedures for obtaining anti-theft software upgrades. Kia owners can receive this upgrade and/or steering-wheel locks, while Hyundai offers a free software upgrade at their discretion.
