Police are investigating a dozen vehicle break-ins that occurred in Palo Alto on Monday, March 21.
Most of the reported auto burglaries occurred along El Camino Real between 5:03 and 10 p.m. In all incidents, the car window was smashed to gain entry, according to the police department.
Five of the thefts took place at the Stanford Shopping Center, located at 180 El Camino. Three occurred at Fuki Sushi restaurant, at 4119 El Camino, and one break-in happened at Town & Country Village, at 855 El Camino. The remaining thefts took place on Alma, Cowper and Emerson streets.
Auto burglaries often occur cyclically, according to police. As crimes of opportunity, thieves go for the easiest targets, police said.
Police remind residents and visitors to never leave valuables in the car and always lock car doors.
Anyone who has seen any suspicious activity around vehicles or who has been the victim of a theft form a vehicle or vehicle burglary should report the incident immediately to the police department by calling 650-329-2413.
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