A slew of vehicle break-ins has stricken the Murfreesboro community, according to the local police department, with a significant number occurring near popular overnight accommodations. The Murfreesboro Police Department Criminal Investigations Division (CID) is fervently investigating incidents where 39 vehicles were targeted at various hotels and an apartment complex located at and around Medical Center Boulevard on the early morning of February 9.
The vehicles sustained shattered windows, and the thieves made away with an array of personal belongings that alarmingly included five firearms among other items; the burglaries transpired within the darkened timeframe of 3 a.m. to 5 a.m., a period when most were likely lost in slumber, unaware of the crimes playing out just steps away from their temporary havens. The affected establishments cited in the official report were Embassy Suites with 16 vehicles broken into, Courtyard by Marriott with 9, Hilton Garden Inn with 7, and the Vintage at the Avenue apartment complex, also hitting 7.
To confound the situation, two vehicles—a 2013 Hyundai Sonata and a 2016 Toyota 4-Runner—were reported stolen and later discovered in a wrecked state, their engines still running and serving as eerie reminders of the night's illicit activities; these vehicles were found in the vicinity of the affected hotels.
Suspects remain unidentified, however, surveillance video has lent the authorities a slight edge, revealing three individuals clad in dark attire and hoodies, navigating the parking lots where these break-ins were conducted; these perpetrators are believed to be operating a white Nissan Maximum with a distinguishable black roof and bearing a temporary tag, Detective Aaron Gonzalez of the Murfreesboro Police CID highlighted the criticality of community awareness and cooperation stating, “We urge everyone to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity immediately,” adding “Our department is committed to finding those responsible and ensuring the safety of our community.”
In their continued efforts to apprehend the culprits, the police have increased their presence in the area with increased patrols while earnestly advising both residents and visitors to double-check that their vehicles are securely locked and valuables are not left visible, which might entice such criminal acts. The department is also calling on the public to assist by examining any personal security footage that might offer leads in the ongoing investigation; those with useful information are encouraged to come forward and contact Detective Gonzalez directly at 629-201-5638.
