Police Investigate String Of Overnight Car Break-Ins Across Battle Ground Neighborhoods – KXL

BATTLE GROUND, Wash. — The Battle Ground Police Department is investigating a series of vehicle break-ins that have occurred across multiple neighborhoods over the past several nights.

According to police, the crimes have been reported in the Creekside Heights neighborhood near NE 142nd Avenue and NE 17th Street, the Mill Creek Meadows area near NW 4th Street and NW 15th Avenue, and several other residential zones. Most incidents took place between midnight and 5 a.m.

Because the thefts are happening on opposite sides of town, investigators believe the suspect or suspects are using a vehicle to move between neighborhoods.

With help from residents, police have obtained several surveillance photos of the person believed to be involved. While the same individual appears in each image, investigators say the quality of the photos makes it difficult to confirm whether more than one suspect may be responsible.

Suspect Description

The suspect is described as a white man in his late 20s to late 30s, with a closely shaved head and medium build. He was seen wearing a dark-colored top, a dark green or brown hooded jacket, blue jeans, a black beanie, a black neck gaiter, and black high-top sneakers with white shoelaces.

Anyone with information about the suspect or these incidents is asked to contact the Battle Ground Police Department at (360) 342-5200. Callers may remain anonymous.

Police Urge Residents to Secure Vehicles

In response to the recent break-ins, Battle Ground police say they are increasing patrols and collecting additional surveillance footage. They’re also reminding residents to take simple steps to reduce their risk of being targeted.

Officers recommend locking car doors and windows, keeping valuables out of sight, using outdoor lighting or motion sensors, and checking that home security cameras are working properly.

“Most vehicle prowls happen right in driveways or residential streets, often when doors are left unlocked or valuables are visible,” the department said in a statement. “A quick check before bed can make a big difference.”

Police encourage residents to report any suspicious activity immediately by calling 911 for emergencies or 311 for non-emergencies.