2 Running Vehicles Stolen In Little Egg Harbor: Police

LITTLE EGG HARBOR, NJ — Police are urging residents to lock up their vehicles after two cars were stolen this week in Little Egg Harbor.

Both vehicles were left running and unattended in store parking lots, Little Egg Harbor police said Thursday.

“We believe these incidents are related to multiple motor vehicle thefts that have occurred in the Atlantic County / Southern Ocean County region in the past several months,” police said. “Please take precautions to safeguard your vehicle and possessions.”

Over the summer, more than 25 unlocked vehicles were stolen from Stafford, Barnegat and Long Beach townships. Stafford Township police urged residents to establish a "9 p.m. routine," which involves locking doors, windows and vehicles, removing any valuables from vehicles and turning on exterior lights outside.

Little Egg Harbor police also suggested several safety tips to prevent car thefts:

• Keep your vehicle locked at all times, even while driving.
• When parked, never leave your keys in the car. Close all the windows and the sunroof.
• Never leave your car running and unattended.
• Avoid leaving valuables inside your vehicle where passersby can see them.
• Look around. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in garages, parking lots and gas stations.
• If confronted by a carjacker, do not resist.

Keep up to date with what's happening in your community by subscribing to your local Patch newsletter here.