Motorheads Performance
This morning, I noticed an article in our local paper which caught my eye. Motorheads Performance, by choice, is located in a very rural area of South Central Texas. Guy Algar and I did this intentionally looking for a place for our classic car repair business which was away from all the interruption and prying eyes of potential criminals. Even so, just 30 miles away in Seguin, Texas, a carjacking occurred. Yes, carjackings can occur anywhere, but it is mainly a big city problem like auto theft, and is generally not considered very likely in a small town like Seguin, Texas!
The Seguin Gazette article reported that the victim was on his way home from work around 3AM when he noticed he was being followed by a black Chevy Tahoe. The suspects allegedly followed the victim to an area where they were able to block him in and force him to pull over (a method called The Trap). Seguin Police Detective Jaime Diaz reported that 4-5 black males wearing masks got out of the Tahoe and demanded money at gunpoint.
Detective Diaz offered carjacking safety tips in case you find yourself in a similar situation. I thought that they were sound advice. I've made a list incorporating his ideas with many others I found when researching carjackings. Remember, the thieves may be after your money, your car, a person or child in your car, or any combination. And, there are many methods used during carjackings including The Bump, The Good Samaritan, The Ruse, and The Trap, Sticker on the Window and others. While most carjackings which target the theft of the vehicle involve moderately priced vehicles intended to go to chop shops for their parts, classic cars, muscle cars, antique cars, vintage trucks and even race cars are potential targets for thieves. Classic car theft can bring good money parted out or sold after a quick repaint.
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| Sometimes a car will be taken for a valued part - like tires & rims! |
- Dial 911 as soon as you suspect you're being followed or in a potentially dangerous situation
- Don't drive to your own home, even if that is where you are headed
- Drive towards the police department, or a store where there are bound to be people around
- Stay in well lit areas
- As you walk to your vehicle, look all around, including under and inside
- Don't park in isolated areas, or those near heavy foliage
- Don't park directly next to vans or large vehicles - use extreme caution if you do
- Ask for a security escort if alone, or if you suspect you're vulnerable
- Be suspicious of people just sitting in cars nearby
- Avoid areas where there are groups of young males loitering
- Be extra careful when handling packages or putting items in your trunk
- Enter quickly and immediately lock your doors
- Once inside, drive away immediately - do not spend time just sitting to organize or check phone, etc.
- Drive with your windows up and your car doors locked
- When stopped in traffic, always allow room to pull away if needed
- If you are bumped, be suspicious. Don't be afraid to call 911 immediately to report it. Don't get out.
- Beware of the "Good Samaritan" who offers help if you're pulled over
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andrea L. Algar is co-owner of a classic car performance and restoration design shop in Leesville, Texas. Motorheads Performance specializes in repairs, maintenance, performance upgrades and restorative work on cars and trucks from the 1920’s through 1970’s. Her husband Guy L. Algar is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years experience. He holds 5 ASE Certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and has been working on old cars and trucks for over 37 years. Together they share their passion for old cars and trucks with other enthusiasts from around the country.