Thieves Steal Seven Cars From Philly Used Car Dealer Open For Less Than A Week

No less than seven vehicles have been stolen from a used car dealership in Philadelphia that has been open for less than a week. The dealership’s owner says the business probably won’t be able to survive the thefts unless police are able to track down all of the stolen cars.

The thefts happened on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning last week when a group broke into the facility and located the owner’s office. They were able to find the keys of seven of the 11 cars parked on the lot and stole them. They also attempted to hotwire a Kia Sorento but were unsuccessful.

It’s not just the vehicles themselves that were stolen but also their titles. According to City Motors of Philadelphia co-owned Nathan Kriegler, the dealership has limited security measures given how new it is and does not yet have security cameras. As if that wasn’t bad enough, he told 6ABC Philadelphia that the dealership only has liability insurance for the vehicles, meaning the insurer won’t pay them out after the thefts.

“If we don’t recover the cars, we probably won’t survive it,” Kriegler said. “It could be the start and the end all in the same week. We called our insurance company today, and unfortunately, we only have liability insurance for the vehicles. So, if we don’t get the cars back, we have no coverage for the vehicles whatsoever.”

While the lack of security cameras will make tracking down the stolen vehicles more difficult, local authorities had found three of them by Wednesday afternoon last week. Police are investigating whether the thefts are related to a host of lootings that took place across the city last Tuesday night.

“I think if I had the choice all over, I would not come to Philadelphia,” Kriegler added. “I think a lot of people are feeling that way.”


Images: 6ABC Philadelphia

The incident at City Motors of Philadelphia highlights the vulnerability of new businesses, especially those in high-crime areas. Without proper security measures in place, they become easy targets for thieves. In this case, the lack of security cameras allowed the perpetrators to break into the dealership and locate the keys to the cars.

The stolen vehicles not only represent a significant financial loss for the dealership but also pose a threat to public safety. Stolen cars can be used in other criminal activities or stripped for parts, further exacerbating the problem. The dealership’s limited liability insurance coverage adds insult to injury, leaving them without any financial recourse in the event of theft.

This incident serves as a reminder for businesses, especially those in the automotive industry, to prioritize security measures. Installing surveillance cameras can deter criminals and provide valuable evidence in case of theft or vandalism. Additionally, implementing access control systems and alarm systems can further enhance security and protect valuable assets.

In the case of City Motors of Philadelphia, local authorities were able to recover three of the stolen vehicles. This demonstrates the importance of collaboration between businesses and law enforcement agencies. Reporting thefts promptly and providing any available information can greatly increase the chances of recovering stolen property.

Unfortunately, incidents like these can have long-lasting effects on businesses. The financial impact of the stolen vehicles and the lack of insurance coverage may force City Motors of Philadelphia to close its doors permanently. This not only affects the owners and employees but also has broader implications for the local economy.

To prevent such incidents from happening in the future, it is crucial for businesses to invest in comprehensive security measures. This includes not only physical security systems but also cybersecurity measures to protect against digital threats. Regular security audits and employee training can also help identify vulnerabilities and mitigate risks.

In conclusion, the theft of seven cars from a newly opened used car dealership in Philadelphia highlights the importance of robust security measures for businesses. Without proper security systems in place, businesses are vulnerable to theft and other criminal activities. This incident serves as a reminder for businesses to prioritize security and take proactive steps to protect their assets. Collaboration with law enforcement agencies is also crucial in recovering stolen property and holding criminals accountable. By investing in comprehensive security measures, businesses can safeguard their operations and contribute to a safer community.