Teen car thieves engage in gun battle with police

In a recent community meeting, a concerned citizen reported a surge in vehicle thefts, highlighting a troubling incident involving four teenagers who stole a Kia. The individual, who does not work for the city but leads a group of over 2,000 members focused on addressing vehicle theft, detailed the events surrounding the theft and subsequent police chase.

The Kia, equipped with a tracking device, was stolen from Mexico Avenue and traced through multiple locations, including Aurora and Denver. The owner promptly notified the police, leading to a pursuit that escalated when the teenagers, armed with illegal firearms, opened fire on law enforcement officers. The police, prioritizing safety, initially backed off but later managed to stop the vehicle using a PIT maneuver.

During the chase, over 20 shots were fired, none by the police, underscoring the dangers posed by armed youth in the community. The incident has raised urgent calls for action regarding both vehicle theft and the prevalence of illegal firearms among teenagers. Community members are advocating for stronger measures to combat these issues and enhance public safety.