Vehicle thefts prompt reminder from Calgary police not to leaves keys in ignition

Calgary police are reminding drivers not to leave vehicles unattended with keys in the ignition after arresting three people in relation to a string of car thefts.

Police said a2006 Toyota Sienna minivan, left running outside the Holiday Inn Calgary-Airport hotel,was stolen around 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 8.

• Vehicle thefts in Calgary leapt 60% last year
• Calgary vehicle thefts by community: See where the crime surge happened

The thief who took the van was observed getting out of a nearby Honda Accord, which itself was believed to be stolen from Hawkwood Auto Service the day before, along with a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe from the same service shop.

Police believe the culprits stole those two vehicles after breaking into the service shop's after-hours drop box and retrieving the keys.

Two men and a woman were later observed by a police helicopter travelling in all three vehicles at various points.

The group eventually made their way toTipperary's Pub in the stolen Santa Fe, where all three were met by officers, arrested and charged with numerous offences.

All three vehicles were recovered.

Police also offered the following tips to reduce the risk of vehicle theft:

• Lock up your vehicle; close the windows and sunroof when the vehicle will be unattended. If you park your vehicle in a garage, make sure the overhead garage door and pedestrian door are locked as well. Do not leave a spare key hidden inside the vehicle.
• Consider installing an aftermarket car alarm if your vehicle is not already equipped with one.
• Be aware of where you park. Well lit parking lots and streets with lots of vehicular and pedestrian traffic will help to deter car thieves.
• Do not leave garage door openers in vehicles. Thieves can use them to gain entry to a home.
• Do not leave valuables in plain view in your vehicle. This includes parcels, cell phones, GPS devices, laptops, clothing or money.
• Avoid parking in unlit areas at night.