Thieves Snatch Dozens of Silverado Wheels at Indiana Dealership

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thieves steal wheels

Since Christmas, Gates Chevy World in Mishawaka, Indiana has been targeted by thieves who are after wheels on new cars.

A number of dealerships in northern Indiana are having a rough start to the year. According to local news station WNDU, Gates Chevy World has been the hardest hit. WNDU‘s Ibrahim Samra is seen presenting his news piece in front of some Chevy Colorados and Silverados. “You can see these two Chevy Colorados. Both of them have no tires on them. That’s because they have been stolen within the last several days,” notes Samra. Talking with Gates Chevy World’s president Matt HelmKamp, we also learn that the value of the wheels – 20 sets in total – top $80,000 in value.

Worse yet, wheels weren’t the only things stolen off the cars. Catalytic converters were taken off some cars too, according to Samra. As opposed to replacing wheels and tires, which is relatively easy, the exhaust systems will need a larger amount of work to put back to OEM specifications. Very pricey new converters will need to be ordered. Cars with stolen converters also usually aren’t discovered till it is turned on with the loud exhaust being the clear giveaway. Another Chrysler dealership has also suffered similar thievery.

thieves steal wheels

Helmkamp explains, “It’s a shame that somebody thinks that that’s how to make a living, by stealing somebody’s stuff, but we are hopeful that they will get caught soon.” Helmkamp assumes it is the same group that has targeted the dealership a number of times. He also is under the impression that thieves have placed some of the wheels and tires on Facebook’s marketplace feature for a quick turnover of cash. As well, he says a group of people has been loading wheels and tires on a truck with Illinois plates recently in the area.

Local police haven’t pursued any leads regarding the sales of wheels and tires. Mishawaka police are increasing patrols in the area during hours when the dealership is closed. Police are also asking locals to help with any information that might lead to the thieves responsible.

Photos: WNDU Indiana

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Patrick Morgan is an instructor at Chicago's Autobahn Country Club and contributes to a number of Auto sites, including MB World, Honda Tech, and 6SpeedOnline. Keep up with his latest racing and road adventures on Twitter and Instagram!


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