(file photo)
The Wright County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into several automobile break-ins at area churches this past Sunday.
Deputies were called to the Quarry Church on Highway 25 Northeast in Monticello Township around 12:20 PM Sunday to investigate a reported car break-in. Deputies learned from victim statements and video from the church that an individual exited a newer model Nissan Murano SUV, and approached the victim’s vehicle. The unidentified suspect then broke the driver side window of the victim’s vehicle, and then can reportedly be seen leaning into the car.
The victim reported that other than the damaged window, it did not appear that anything from the vehicle was missing. Another victim however, reported that their vehicle was broken into and items had been stolen while parked at the Quarry Church.
In addition to these incidents, the Sheriff’s Office reports several other similar vehicle break-ins on April 7th, including numerous thefts from vehicles during the services of Connection Point Church at the Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church campus in Buffalo Township, and at the Buffalo Evangelical Free Church off Highway 25 on 50th Street Northeast in Buffalo Township. So far, 13 victims have been identified in these incidents, all of which are still under investigation. Authorities say no injuries were reported.
Law enforcement agencies continue to emphasize the importance of removing valuables from parked vehicles, or at least keeping them out of sight. Car owners are also reminded to lock their vehicles and use any other built-in or aftermarket security devices or alarms available to them.
(content: courtesy Wright County)
