Thieves Steal Cars and Return for More at California Dealership

Last weekend, City Motors, a used car dealership in Hayward, California, experienced a daring theft. Thieves managed to steal three cars and the keys to every vehicle in the showroom. However, what makes this incident truly remarkable is that one of the thieves couldn’t resist the temptation and returned later to grab a fourth car. This level of dedication is truly astonishing!

The Heist

The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, November 19. The thieves forcefully entered the dealership, using a pickaxe to break into the lockbox containing the dealership’s vehicle keys. With the keys in hand, they gained access to a 2018 Mercedes G-Class, which they drove through the dealership’s front window. Simultaneously, their accomplices made off with a BMW X3 and a Honda Civic, making a hasty escape into the night.

The Unexpected Return

At around 1:00 a.m., Alameda County Sheriff’s deputies arrived at the scene to inspect the showroom. However, they realized that the jurisdiction belonged to the Hayward Police Department. After contacting the shop owner, they left. Security footage revealed that after the deputies departed and the dealership was empty, one of the thieves returned and stole another car—a Pontiac—using one of the previously stolen keys.

Dealer’s Response

City Motors General Manager Emilio Espinosa displayed remarkable patience following the incident. He expressed understanding towards the Sheriff’s deputies and focused on the unfortunate situation. Since the crime occurred, all affected locks have been changed, and the dealership’s doors have been boarded up while awaiting a permanent solution. The estimated cost of repairs is around $50,000 to $60,000, not to mention the loss of hundreds of thousands of dollars in vehicles.

A History of Theft

Regrettably, this is not the first time City Motors has fallen victim to theft. A few years ago, the dealership experienced a similar incident where several vehicles were stolen. Although the thieves were never caught, the cars were eventually returned, giving Espinosa some hope.