Thieves Steal 10 Ford F-150 Raptors Due to Key Error
Overview
Ten unregistered Ford F-150 Raptors were stolen from a Ford storage facility in Michigan. The high-performance V8-powered trucks had a combined value of $1 million, with the keys left in the cabs. Police later recovered five of the trucks and apprehended four suspects.
The Heist
Thieves in Michigan managed to steal 10 brand new F-150 Raptor trucks directly from the production line. The theft was made easier due to Ford workers leaving the keys inside the cabs of each zero-mile pickup.
The Recovery
The trucks were taken from a Ford storage facility in Woodhaven and were abandoned after being built and awaiting dispatch. Each unoptioned Raptor is valued at $78,440, totaling around $1 million for all 10 trucks. Police recovered five of the stolen trucks, leading to the arrest of four suspects.
Investigation
While it remains unclear how the thieves gained access to the Ford compound, police believe they escaped by driving through a cyclone fence onto Vreeland Road. Chief Scott Fraczek of Woodhaven police expressed surprise at the keys being left in the vehicles, emphasizing the need for better security measures.
Recovery and Arrest
Despite the thieves’ luck with the keys, their getaway was short-lived as police found abandoned trucks due to low fuel levels. Four additional Raptors were recovered, and suspects were apprehended at a gas station in Harper Woods.
Previous Incidents
This incident is not the first time vehicles have been stolen from Ford facilities. In previous years, Mustang Shelby GT500s were also stolen from Ford’s Flat Rock Assembly plant.
Conclusion
Vehicle theft remains a concern for automakers, highlighting the importance of robust security protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.