Just after 5 a.m. Tuesday, a normally quiet Lauderhill block turned into a smash-and-grab zone, as masked thieves were caught on camera rifling through more than a dozen cars and leaving a trail of broken glass behind.
Surveillance video from Northwest 23rd Street near 44th Avenue shows several suspects in masks and hoodies fanning out along the street, moving from vehicle to vehicle and yanking at doors. The crew kept at it, apparently unfazed by exterior lights, security cameras or the chance that someone might walk outside, according to Local 10.
One of the residents hit in the spree, registered nurse Marry Gooding, told Local 10 that her work bag, cash and personal information were all taken. "It's like your life is stripped from you," she said. She is now staring at repair estimates of $450 to $500, on top of an $800 Costco gift card and several bank cards that vanished with the thieves.
The Lauderhill Police Department said it is investigating multiple vehicle burglaries in the area and is reviewing surveillance video as part of the probe, per the Lauderhill Police Department. Anyone with information is urged to contact law enforcement or reach out to Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.
How neighbors can protect vehicles
Residents are being encouraged to save any relevant camera clips and share clear footage or license plate details with investigators, since video has played a key role in cracking similar cases. Simple steps such as locking doors, rolling up windows, removing valuables and parking in well-lit spots can cut the odds of a break-in, as the National Insurance Crime Bureau notes, NICB.
As of now, Lauderhill police have not announced any arrests and the investigation is still active. Neighbors say they are rechecking their security systems and swapping video among themselves while officials comb through clips in an effort to identify the suspects.
