As millions of travelers prepare to fly out for Thanksgiving, Los Angeles Airport Police are issuing a new warning: car thefts are increasing at LAX parking garages and lots, and thieves are exploiting vulnerabilities in certain newer vehicles.
Undercover officers recently took 7 On Your Side Investigates on patrol to show how criminals are targeting parked vehicles—and what travelers can do to avoid becoming victims.
Thieves Are Exploiting a Weak Spot in New Cars
According to an undercover LAXPD sergeant, officers have observed a pattern: thieves are punching out rear windows on certain newer models because doing so does not activate the alarm system.
“We’re seeing rear windows being punched, and the car doesn’t sound the alarm,” the sergeant explained.
An LAPD detective supervisor added that this flaw was not widely known until recently. Now that criminals have discovered it, they’re taking advantage.
As LAX’s parking structures host thousands of vehicles representing every make and model, thieves are focusing their attention on high-end trucks and SUVs. This year, popular targets include:
- Dodge TRX
- Chevrolet Yukon
- GMC Denali
- Cadillac Escalade
- Jeep Rubicon
Car Theft Numbers Are Increasing Year After Year
While airport officers emphasize that thefts are not “skyrocketing,” the numbers show a clear rise:
- 2023: 67 thefts
- 2024: 111 thefts
- 2025 (YTD): 138 thefts
The Los Angeles Airport Police confirmed these figures and say they are expanding undercover and surveillance efforts to respond to the trend.
How to Avoid Becoming a Target at LAX
Officers say the biggest mistake travelers make is rushing to catch a flight and accidentally leaving valuables in plain view—especially wallets, keys, or bags.
LAX Police Capt. Karla Rodriguez advises:
“If you’re leaving your vehicle for long-term parking, leave valuables at home if possible.”
Other key safety recommendations:
1. Don’t leave anything visible inside the car
Even loose change, electronics, or sunglasses can attract thieves.
2. Park near security cameras
LAX has hundreds of cameras across all garages, and officers say parking near them dramatically increases the chance of capturing suspects.
3. Lock your car manually
Some thieves use signal-boosting devices to intercept key-fob locks. Double-check that your doors are locked.
4. Take photos of your car and parking spot
This helps officers identify your vehicle quickly if something happens.
Cameras Are Helping Catch Criminals
Just last weekend, a catalytic-converter thief was recorded on a parking lot camera stealing parts from vehicles. Thanks to the footage, he was arrested and linked to 13 catalytic converter thefts at LAX.
LAX Police maintain an entire surveillance unit that monitors live and recorded footage from hundreds of cameras. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (hyperlink: FAA official site), major airports rely heavily on video technology to combat rising theft and vandalism.
What Travelers Should Remember
As holiday travel ramps up, more cars will be left in LAX parking lots for days at a time. Officers are intensifying patrols, but the best prevention starts with the traveler:
- Remove valuables
- Lock doors and windows
- Park in visible, well-lit areas
- Choose spots near cameras and exits
With increased vigilance, travelers can significantly reduce the risk of car theft while they’re away.
