Carrick Residents Targeted in Kia and Hyundai Break-Ins: A Community Fights Back

In a concerning turn of events, residents of the Carrick neighborhood in Pittsburgh have found themselves the victims of a troubling trend of vehicle break-ins, specifically targeting Kia and Hyundai models. The story of one local woman, Nicole Berneda, sheds light on the challenges faced by the community and the steps being taken to address this growing issue.

Securing Investments: A Community's Struggle Against Persistent Theft

Twice Targeted, Twice Violated

Nicole Berneda's experience is a testament to the persistence of the thieves targeting her community. After her car was broken into for the first time on June 29th, Berneda thought she had taken the necessary precautions to protect her vehicle. However, the suspects had other plans, returning to target her car a second time. This time, the situation escalated, with the suspects pulling a gun on Berneda's husband and threatening to "be back." Understandably, this prompted the family to take additional security measures to safeguard their property.

Kia and Hyundai: The Targets of Choice

According to Pittsburgh Police Chief Larry Scirroto, the department has seen a significant rise in these break-ins, with a focus on Kia and Hyundai vehicles since May. The perpetrators, in some cases, have been shockingly young, with the chief citing instances of 10-year-old offenders. This trend has left many Kia and Hyundai owners in the Carrick area feeling vulnerable and concerned for the safety of their vehicles.

Dealership Woes: Adding Insult to Injury

Berneda's experience with the Kia dealership only compounded her frustration. After the first break-in, she took her car to the dealership for repairs, only to be informed that her vehicle would be out of commission for two months. The reason? Berneda was told that "everyone's cars are getting broken into" at the dealership, further exacerbating the challenges faced by Kia and Hyundai owners in the area.

Community Mobilization: Addressing the Crisis

In response to the growing problem, the Pittsburgh police and AAA have taken proactive steps to assist Kia and Hyundai owners. They have organized events, such as the one held in East Liberty, to distribute free steering wheel lock devices to help secure these vehicles. Jim Garrity, the AAA director of public affairs, emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating that they are "trying to get ahead of the thieves" and help vehicle owners protect their investments.

A Persistent Problem, a Determined Community

Berneda's determination to address this issue has not waned. She has reached out to the mayor's office, hoping to find a solution that will prevent these break-ins from continuing to plague her neighborhood. The community's resilience in the face of this challenge is a testament to their commitment to keeping their streets safe and their investments secure.As the Carrick community navigates this ongoing crisis, the story of Nicole Berneda and her family serves as a poignant reminder of the impact these crimes can have on individuals and the importance of collective action to address the problem. With the support of local authorities and a united community, the residents of Carrick are poised to reclaim their sense of security and protect their hard-earned possessions.