Cars left on milk crates; owners frustrated by thieves targeting their wheels

Picture this: you are getting ready to leave your home and come outside to find your car propped up on milk crates.

That is the reality for some living in Allerton and across the Bronx.

At least three vehicles were seen on Lurting Avenue, with all four tires gone - and the cars left on the pavement propped up by milk crates.

"There definitely needs to be more effort done, imagine you're coming outside you need to go to work, need to pick up your kid or something and you see your tires are stolen, what are you going to do?" said Saft Mobid.

The Bronx has the highest number of reported vehicle thefts in the city, with more than 3,100 vehicles reported stolen as of Sept. 14, 2025, according to NYPD crime data. That is up more than 5% from the same time last year.

"It's not a high priority for the NYPD, they just come in and make the report then leave," said Mobid, "there needs to be more effort done."

The NYPD shared tips on auto theft prevention:

Don't leave the keys in the ignition

Vehicles left unattended with keys in the ignition are easily targeted by car thieves. This dangerous practice allows for an easy theft or a joy ride by an inexperienced driver.

This commonly occurs around the neighborhood store, deli, coffee shop or newspaper stand. Remain alert. Don't create an opportunity. Don't become a victim!

When leaving your vehicle always:

You might only be a "minute" — but a minute is all a thief needs. Lock up your car and take your keys with you.