Gas Is So Expensive Now, Theives Are Drilling Into Car Gas Tanks To Steal It

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (WDAF) – There’s a new warning about a crime that some are linking to the high price of gas – thieves drilling into vehicle gas tanks to steal fuel.

Newer vehicles have an anti-rollover valve that relieves pressure in the tank and also prevents would-be thieves from siphoning gas, according to AAA, so crooks are bypassing the valve and drilling right into the underside of the car.

In Kansas City, police in Overland Park and Independence are investigating multiple such reports. Police say the crimes happened overnight last week and left at least two pickup trucks and a third vehicle damaged.

In Washington state, where the average price of regular gas was $4.74 on Monday, police in the city of Everett warned drivers of the crime:

With the sharp and fast rise of price at the gas pumps we are seeing an increase in gas theft. While some thieves use rubber hoses to siphon fuel out, we are seeing modern day thieves use power tools to drill a hole in the gas tank and steal fuel. The cost of damage to the gas tank far exceeds that of the gasoline and we recommend that you park your vehicle in a garage or well-lit and high traveled area to help deter would-be thieves. If you see or hear and suspicious activity near your vehicle, call 911 right away.