How To Protect Yourself From Carjackings, Car Thefts In St. Louis

ST. LOUIS, MO — Authorities say carjackings and car thefts are on the rise in St. Louis. According the St. Louis County Police Department, a dozen cars were stolen across the city just last week as their drivers left them running and unattended to warm up on cold mornings.

"We know it's cold, but it's not worth having your car stolen," the law enforcement agency tweeted, advising drivers to forego warming up their vehicles in the morning.

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Police also said there were five carjackings over the Thanksgiving weekend and more than 300 so far this year, according to KSDK. Many of the victims were pumping gas, visiting ATMs or otherwise parked in their vehicles when they were targeted by thieves.

Police said a 70-year-old man was carjacked in north St. Louis' Greater Ville neighborhood Sunday. The man was not injured, but minutes later police said one of the carjackers — a 14-year-old boy — was himself shot in the head.

Authorities say to be aware of your surroundings and to always park in well-lit areas, especially at night. Keep your doors locked while driving and try to visit crowded, well-lit gas stations with lots of cameras.

If you are carjacked, do not resist. Let the thief have your car and focus on being a good witness, authorities say. Try to remember what he or she was wearing and as many physical details as possible. Observe the direction in which they drive away, and call 9-1-1 as soon as possible.

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