Chicago police are sounding the alarm over a run of smash-and-grab burglaries targeting steering-wheel airbags across multiple South Side neighborhoods. Investigators say the overnight spree happened between March 18 and March 19 and hit blocks in Wentworth, Grand Crossing, Chicago Lawn, East Hyde Park, South Shore and Canaryville. In each case, two people smashed the driver-side window, pulled out the airbag module and then took off in a gray or silver Hyundai Genesis SUV.
According to FOX 32 Chicago, detectives listed several specific locations and time windows, including the 2200 block of East 70th Street around 7:00 a.m. and the 5500 block of South Shore at about 7:50 a.m., and asked residents to save any doorbell or surveillance footage that might help identify the thieves. Police urged anyone with information to call Area One detectives at 312-747-8384 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com using reference #26-1-027CA.
Part of a Larger Citywide Surge
The latest streak fits into a months-long pattern of airbag thefts that has been popping up across Chicago since late last year. Dozens of similar incidents, including a February sweep that stripped airbags from roughly two dozen Hondas in Lakeview, have prompted repeated community alerts, as reported by NBC Chicago.
Why Airbags Are Being Stolen
Airbag modules are small, quick to remove and easy to hide, which makes them attractive to thieves and to buyers on illicit markets. Industry reporting notes the National Insurance Crime Bureau estimates roughly 50,000 airbags are stolen nationwide each year, and mechanics say stolen modules can go for only a few hundred dollars while dealer replacements often cost well over $1,000. MotorWeek and local coverage have laid out those dynamics.
How to Protect Your Car
Police are urging drivers to lock their vehicles, park in well-lit areas, consider Club-style steering-wheel locks that cover the airbag area and save any time-stamped video that could help identify suspects. Area One detectives are continuing to collect tips and evidence, and anyone with information can call 312-747-8384 or send an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com (ref. #26-1-027CA), per FOX 32 Chicago.
