The Manhattan Beach Police Department released its weekly crime summary for October 16 through October 22, 2025, reporting a total of 810 calls for service, 14 arrests, and 44 reports taken. Notably, the summary included 14 traffic collisions and a breakdown of the top 8 crime categories within the city. The department revealed that there were 2 assaults in Patrol Area 2, 1 auto theft in Patrol Area 1, a single residential burglary in Patrol Area 3, alongside 6 thefts and 2 vehicle burglaries in Patrol Areas 3 and 4. There were no reported business burglaries, robberies, or instances of vandalism during this period.
Highlighted in the crime report, and published on the city's website, were several theft incidents involving victims at beach areas. In one instance, a beachgoer who had hidden their keys on their car’s front grill later found their vehicle ransacked and valuables missing. Another case detailed how a thief used a grinder to sever the lock on an e-bike tethered among others, while the distraught owner could do nothing but watch from the water. In a similar vein, another victim had their key fob, along with personal items, taken from a hiding spot inside their blue Porsche Cayenne's gas cap after parking to go surfing.
One particularly brazen theft occurred in broad daylight at a Trader Joe’s parking lot in the 1800 block of Manhattan Beach Boulevard. The victim, in this case, suspects she may have left her vehicle unlocked due to a malfunctioning key fob, which led to the theft of a laptop and ear buds from the car. This string of incidents has prompted the MBPD to advise the public on ways to safeguard their possessions and avoid falling victim to such crimes.
The police recommended never hiding keys on or under your vehicle, as thieves are familiar with these common spots. Instead, they suggested the use of waterproof key pouches that can be worn while swimming, and to keep valuables at home or in a secure locker. For those with electronic or keyless entry systems, the recommendation was to secure keys in a hidden compartment and utilize a waterproof wristband or code for re-entry. With the annual "Trunk or Treat" event on the horizon for October 29th, these tips could come especially in handy for residents and visitors preparing for the festivities.
