Overnight gas thieves are quietly working their way across St. Paul, drilling straight into vehicle fuel tanks, draining them dry and leaving drivers both stranded and stuck with hefty repair bills. The hits, which are mostly targeting trucks, have left owners rattled and prompted a formal police investigation.
Where It's Happening
St. Paul police have logged about a half-dozen reports clustered along the Mississippi River, the West End, the West Side and central St. Paul, according to CBS Minnesota. Investigators say the thieves are striking in the middle of the night and are asking anyone with surveillance footage or other information to contact the St. Paul Police Department.
Owners and Repair Shops Describe the Damage
One driver, John Holzem, told CBS Minnesota that "I had just enough fumes to get off to the side" after his Chevy Silverado suddenly lost power once the tank had been drained. AAA responders confirmed the truck was out of gas, and Holzem said towing and related costs ran about $600. A local repair shop reports that mechanics are already working on multiple vehicles brought in with holes drilled into their fuel tanks.
Why Mechanics Say It's Spreading
The tactic, sometimes called "drill-and-drain," has surfaced in other U.S. cities as fuel prices have climbed, and mechanics warn that repairs can get expensive while insurers say the damage is typically covered under comprehensive policies, as reported by The Washington Post. Repair shops add that taller trucks are especially appealing targets because there is more room to work underneath the vehicle.
How to Protect Your Vehicle
Drivers are urged to park in well-lit, populated areas when possible, consider motion-activated cameras or lighting, and give their vehicle a quick check before driving if it has been left outside overnight. If your car is hit, take photos of the damage, notify your insurer and file a police report. Investigators have asked anyone with video or tips to reach out to the St. Paul Police Department.
