A series of car break-ins rocks the Copperas Cove community

COPPERAS COVE, Texas (KXXV) – Neighbors are on edge after car thefts rocked a Copperas Cove community, leaving residents shaken and questioning their safety.

“The fact that someone could do something so heinous and destroy the peace that everyone had here – there’s a reason why we felt safe here, and now that’s completely broken,” Evy Sellers said after her car was broken into became.

“Now it’s just changed because you start to wonder: Is it someone in the neighborhood? Is it someone outside the neighborhood?”

The thefts occurred in the early hours of November 17th. Security footage showed two people going from house to house, breaking into cars, ransacking them and stealing items from wallets to firearms. Some vehicles were even reported stolen.

“There were mixed reactions. Why didn’t you lock your car? Because it felt safe, and that’s exactly what I said – locked or not, my property was violated. “My peace was stolen,” Sellers said.

The Copperas Cove Police Department (CCPD) noted that while there is a slight increase in vehicle crime during the holidays, thefts often occur sporadically throughout the year.

The department noted that busy schedules and shopping trips can lead to valuables being left in cars, making them easy targets for thieves.

CCPD also reminded residents not to leave spare keys in their vehicles, as this is common in many thefts. To prevent these crimes, CCPD encourages residents to lock their car doors, remove valuables and park in well-lit areas. They also advised that firearms should never be left in an unattended vehicle. Security cameras and motion-activated lights are also recommended as effective deterrents.

According to CCPD, many vehicle break-ins involve unlocked cars, and simply locking doors can significantly reduce the risk of theft. If a break-in occurs, residents are asked to call the police immediately, not to disturb the crime scene and to search for relevant surveillance footage.

The earlier the crime is reported, the better the chances of catching the suspect.

According to CCPD, crime prevention is a shared responsibility. Simple measures such as locking doors and securing valuables can significantly reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim.

“You think you can get away with it,” Sellers said. “You’ll keep trying, but eventually you’ll get caught.” Everything will go wrong and you’ll get caught for everything. Maybe by betraying someone or speaking out, you give someone the opportunity to change their path,” Sellers said.

In response to the recent string of car break-ins, CCPD said it is actively investigating the incidents and has identified relevant individuals. The department remains committed to holding those responsible accountable.

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