Car Thieves Flee Lemont Police After Call From Resident: Cops

LEMONT, IL — Car thieves fled Lemont Police on Wednesday afternoon after a call from an alert resident, police said.

The thieves were first spotted in the Covington Knolls subdivision on Wednesday, police said. A resident contacted police, who were able to respond as the thieves started checking vehicles for open doors and keys, according to police.

Police said they located the car thieves, who had now traveled to Chestnut Crossing, and attempted to stop the car.

The thieves fled from police in a gray Dodge Challenger, which had been stolen in Crest Hill, police said. Police were unable to stop the vehicle because of the driver's reckless disregard for public safety as they fled, according to police.

Police reminded residents to call 911 if they witness crimes in progress, and they should not try to confront the thieves themselves. These theft crews are usually armed and often engage in violence using the stolen vehicles that are obtained, police said.

The call made on Wednesday by the concerned citizen and the response by officers prevented
any crime from occurring, police said.

Police also advised locking all vehicles parked outside, both overnight and during the day. Residents should always close their garage doors, and do not leave keys inside an unattended car.

Police said officers will continue to increase their presence in the neighborhoods targeted by these crews.