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Sunbury police report surge in vehicle break-ins; chief urges residents to lock cars and secure firearms
Summary
Sunbury Police Chief reported a string of vehicle break-ins and several stolen firearms over two weeks, urging residents to lock vehicles, secure valuables and store firearms safely; investigations and some suspects were mentioned but no arrests detailed.
Sunbury — Sunbury Police Chief Howard told City Council on July 30 that officers have investigated multiple vehicle break‑ins in recent weeks and that “we've had 2 or 3 firearms stolen in the last 2 weeks out of cars that were parked outside, unlocked, keys in them.”
Howard said the thefts occurred in several neighborhoods — including Sunbury Meadows, Price Ponds and Rolling Hills — and described suspects approaching cul‑de‑sacs in groups, trying vehicle doors and entering cars that were unlocked or had garage doors left partly open. “All I ask is just make sure we're locking our cars. We're not leaving valuables out and, for god's sakes, put the firearms away,” he said.
Council members asked about timing and locations. Howard said most incidents occurred during overnight hours, though one took place around 6:30 a.m. He told the council that Ohio State Patrol located one stolen vehicle on State Route 71 but officers were unable to stop it when it crossed into another area. The chief said investigators have “some suspects” but did not give details in open session.
Howard urged residents to use vehicle safes if they carry firearms and to avoid confronting suspects: “Don't — it's not worth it over property.” He also asked residents to review any home or security camera footage and report suspicious activity to the police. No formal motions or votes were tied to the police report.
The council did not set a follow‑up action in the meeting; Chief Howard said investigative work is ongoing.
