WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: Business burglarized for second time in 2 weeks; stolen car dumped in driveway crash

| Crime | West Seattle news

Two notes in West Seattle Crime Watch this morning:

BUSINESS BURGLARIZED 2X IN 2 WEEKS: The front of Global Smoke & Vape at 35th/Roxbury was still boarded up from the break-in on August 26th when crash-and-grab burglar(s) hit it early today. We went over to check after a reader tip. The store proprietor confirmed the burglary and said a vehicle had been used to break down the temporary door. The SPD call log shows an alarm response there just after 4 am. The store is open today, even as they clean up, again.

DUMPED IN DRIVEWAY CRASH: Even earlier this morning, a rude awakening at Jon‘s house near 20th/Holden:

Car thieves dumped that stolen Kia Soul in his driveway, after crashing it into his car around 1:15 am, still running (as is often the case). More than four hours later, Jon reported, “Police just left with the tow truck. The car owner didn’t even know it had been stolen yet. A great way to start the day.”

P.S. Today’s already seen at least one other stolen/dumped Kia, according to police-radio communication – another one left at Westcrest Park, also damaged and running.

Jeff September 6, 2023 (12:16 pm)

At what point is this negligence on Kia to correct? They have the most easily stolen car in America. A ten year old could steal one with ease. Fix your faulty car.

Julian September 6, 2023 (2:05 pm)

Kia and Hyundai are currently litigating a class action lawsuit over this. Settlement terms were denied by a judge because the judge found the terms inadequate. Earlier this year they both announced a service for free anti-theft software. Not sure how effective it is, but requiring a key in the ignition seems to be a good idea.https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/hyundai-kia-campaign-prevent-vehicle-theft
Ki-nah September 6, 2023 (3:48 pm)

I recently bought a more expensive used Honda over similar Kias/Hyundais partly for this reason. Also, I think TicTok bears a great deal of blame for allowing how-to videos on committing crimes on their platform.

datamuse September 6, 2023 (12:58 pm)

The PS explains the SPD vehicles my husband and I saw during our run at Westcrest this morning. What fun.

KK September 6, 2023 (5:27 pm)

So far the thieves have left my 2013 Hyundai Elantra alone, but my insurance rates went up significantly recently. Not a surprise.

bolo September 6, 2023 (9:16 pm)

My insurance rates jumped at last month’s renewal as well, for a car that does not remotely resemble a Hyundai or Kia. My agent told me they are all going up everywhere. Insurance companies are either getting out of the market, or robustly raising rates.
- Jay September 7, 2023 (10:31 am)
  
  Our insurance has tripled in the last two years. Subaru and Toyota. It’s absurd. Considering dumping comprehensive and only carrying liability because I’m literally paying 15% of the value of each vehicle per year to insure them and they’re under 10 years old.
Ouch September 7, 2023 (8:59 am)

I think insurance rates went up all around, mine were raised $400 for 6-months, on an older model Landrover.
- CARGUY September 7, 2023 (11:36 am)
  
  Raised $400!?! Mine is less than $295 for a 6mo premium… for 2 cars & roadside assistance (European sports car & Japanese SUV) Check out GEICO. They have paid me out multiple times for hit & runs, and multiple tows and have never increased my premium. I used to call every year and check other competitors and they were never close.

1994 September 6, 2023 (9:33 pm)

These poor business owners have to deal with such a headache and heartache! It is a wonder they stay in business. I hope the SPD can crack down on these car thieves who are doing the smash & grabs. Jail time sounds about right!