YORK COUNTY, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A recent string of vehicle break-ins has rattled the Lake Wylie and Fort Mill areas. Now, the York County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help with potentially identifying those involved.
The YCSO reports on February 23, more than 24 vehicles were broken into across Lake Wylie, and surveillance footage helped piece together a disturbing scene.
In newly released video, one suspect is seen casually opening an unlocked vehicle and stealing items, while another stands guard, wielding a firearm. The armed suspect points the weapon at the victim’s security camera and even dances mockingly before moving on to the next target.
Just two days later, on February 25, 22 vehicle break-ins happened in various parts of Fort Mill, including Hyde Park Lane, Autumn Ridge Lane, and the Legacy Apartments, with a handful of similar incidents at the Bromley Village Drive Apartments, the YCSO said. The breakdown of the thefts shows that most of the vehicles targeted were SUVs, pickups, and vans, and authorities believe the thieves were specifically after firearms and valuable personal property.
A total of 42 vehicles were entered through unlocked doors, four had their doors pried open, and one had its window shattered. In two cases, the suspects managed to steal vehicles after finding key fobs left inside. Among the stolen items were several firearms, wallets, credit cards, cash, and even an army-issued rucksack.
Authorities are urging the public not to confront the suspects if they spot any suspicious activity but to immediately call 911.
If you recognize the individuals in the video or have any information that might assist in the investigation, you’re asked to call the York County Sheriff’s Office at 803-396-8426.
