There is an apparent flaw within KIA and Hyundai models which allows thieves to steal the victim’s vehicle without the key fob. If you own a KIA and/or Hyundai, you are encouraged to contact the manufacturer to have their key fobs outfitted with an immobilizer.
The West Easton Police Department is investigating a series of stolen vehicles from West Easton Borough. On January 14, 2023, the West Easton Police Department responded to a report of a stolen vehicle. It was discovered there was not any forced entry into the vehicle.
In the previous stolen vehicle report, the suspect(s) damaged the interior of the vehicles attempting to get them started. Both vehicles were KIA models.
Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious is asked to contact our agency via the Northampton County Non-Emergency number, 610-759-2200 or the tip-line at 610-438-2304.
Thefts could be linked to the nationwide social media trend that has teenagers swiping cars using a USB cord. The cars are also hot targets because they are, apparently, easy to steal.
You could very well have your car stolen because thieves are taking advantage of an issue with the ignition in the vehicle, all stemming from a viral TikTok challenge.
This applies to Hyundais made between 2016-2021 and Kias made between 2011-2021, which do not have push-button starts and use a traditional turn-key ignition.
ATTEMPT TO LOCATE: West Easton P.D. is investigating the theft of a 2018 White KIA Optima 4 door sedan bearing Pennsylvania Registration JWB4678 . The vehicle was last seen parked in front of 732 Sterlingworth Terrace, West Easton Borough, West Easton, PA 18042, at 0630 hours on this date 1/14/2023.
The vehicle was not under repossession and the owner holds the only key to the vehicle. The vehicle has front passenger side quarter panel damage, standard window tint but no other noticeable points of interest (e.g., bumper stickers, after market equipment etc.).
Disclaimer: On January 4, 2016, the owner of WestEastonPA.com began serving on the West Easton Council following an election. Postings and all content found on this website are the opinions of Matthew A. Dees and may not necessarily represent the opinion of the governing body for The Borough of West Easton.
