News Summary
East Nashville is facing a severe increase in car thefts, with incidents rising by 40% in the past year. Residents are alarmed after vehicles were stolen from driveways, including a local resident’s silver Kia Forte. Authorities attribute the surge to a group known as the ‘Kia Boys,’ who exploit the vulnerabilities of specific car models. The community is responding with vigilance and is planning a meeting to address the growing concern. Additionally, Metro Nashville has filed a lawsuit against Kia and Hyundai for inadequate anti-theft measures.
Surge in Car Thefts Grips East Nashville Amid Winter Chill
It’s a chilling time not just because of the winter weather, but also due to a worrying surge in car thefts sweeping through East Nashville. Residents are feeling anxious after multiple reports of stolen vehicles, some even taken right from their driveways during harsh weather conditions. The alarming reality is that a local resident, Amber Matz, experienced this on a cold snow-filled night when she discovered her silver Kia Forte had vanished.
After taking her dog outside, she and her husband made the startling realization that their vehicle had been stolen, with evidence caught on surveillance video showing the theft occurring at around 10:40 p.m. the previous night. As the couple peered at their neighbors’ footage, they learned that the crime took place while their vehicle was locked and secure in the carport, just adding to the frustration of being a victim.
An Unwelcome Increase
According to Metro Police, vehicle thefts in East Nashville have soared by an astonishing 40% over the past year. Reports climbed from 333 in 2023 to 462 in 2024, with January alone seeing 56 vehicles broken into across seven streets. The rise in thefts has been traced back to a group of underage individuals known as the “Kia Boys.” These thieves gained notoriety through social media, showing how easy it can be to steal Kias and Hyundais using simple tutorials. Ironically, these models have become targets due to their perceived vulnerability.
The community is reacting with a mix of fear and determination. Local resident Drake Melson, who had previously experienced car theft, underlined the need for everyone to stay vigilant and work together. It seems many have already taken this advice to heart as a community meeting is in the works to address the worrying trend.
Spotting the Perpetrators
As residents look to protect their vehicles, police believe that two to three individuals in a newer white extended cab Ford F-150 are responsible for the recent break-ins. This insight has sparked conversations around security tactics as community members actively share experiences and tips to keep their vehicles safe.
Filing a Lawsuit
Adding to the tension, Metro Nashville has filed a federal lawsuit against Kia and Hyundai, claiming insufficient anti-theft technology helped contribute to the dramatic rise in vehicle thefts linked to their cars. Reports indicate that over 1,500 Kia and Hyundai vehicles were stolen in Nashville last year, marking a jaw-dropping 555% increase from 2022. Alarmingly, nearly half of the vehicle thefts reported in January 2024 involved these specific car models.
In an effort to combat this trend, Metro Nashville’s police department has launched a special initiative targeting auto theft. They are also encouraging car owners to seek out software upgrades that enhance vehicle security. With models from 2011 to 2022 lacking vital anti-theft technology, many owners are feeling exposed and hesitant.
Winter Precautions
Residents like Matz are becoming increasingly cautious about warming up their vehicles during these cold months, especially after realizing it is illegal to leave them running unattended, a law enacted back in 2010. Many are now second-guessing warming up their cars due to the escalating risks of theft.
As East Nashville braces for more snowfalls and grapples with these alarming theft trends, the community is taking a strong stance to protect their homes and vehicles. Neighbors are banding together, sharing the responsibility of safety, and hoping that by shining a light on these issues, the tides will turn and their neighborhood will feel safe once again.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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East Nashville Residents Unite Against Rising Car Break-Ins
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East Nashville Residents Demand Action on Rising Car Break-Ins
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Additional Resources
- WKRN: Nashville Car Thefts Continue to Rise
- Wikipedia: Vehicle Theft
- Tennessean: Hyundai Kia Lawsuit Over Car Thefts
- Google Search: Nashville Car Thefts
- Hoodline: Nashville Police Urge Motorists to Lock Cars
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Car Theft
- Fox17: Two Arrests Made in East Nashville Car Break-Ins
- Google News: Nashville Car Theft Arrests
Author: HERE Nashville
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