Thieves targeting unlocked vehicles, taking garage openers

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Police are concerned about something thieves have been doing in one part of Fort Wayne. They're getting into unlocked cars and stealing garage door openers.

It's something you probably do without thinking leaving your garage door opener in your car.

That's something thieves have been taking from some unlocked vehicles near Aspen Court on the north side. Police say they've already victimized almost 10 people in one neighborhood.

"They were walking up to vehicles that were secured and walking away. The homes that were targeted had vehicles that were found to be unsecured, unlocked," FWPD officer Raquel Foster said.

Sandy Ely and her husband had their garage door opener taken from their car Monday. She says normally they keep their car locked but forgot to that night.

"They stole our garage door opener and that was our big concern that they would come back and take something in the house," Ely said.

Since the robbery she says she doesn't feel safe.

"It's very frightening. It just scares me to death."

Police say this person or group of people have used the garage openers to get into others garages. Officer Raquel Foster's concerned they may gain access to the house too.

"Because by accessing your garage, especially if it's an attached garage, they're accessing your home as well," Foster said.

Police encourage everyone to keep garage openers and valuables out of their car and keep doors locked. You should also take extra steps if you have an attached garage.

"Make sure that your door from your garage to your home is secured as well in case someone gains access to the garage."

Police don't have a suspect description at this time.