The Emporia Police Department is continuing its investigation into a series of automotive part thefts.
Police received multiple reports of catalytic converters being cut out of vehicles from at least five different locations in far west Emporia over a 48-hour span between Monday and Wednesday. According to Emporia Police Captain Lisa Hayes, the affected businesses include John North Ford, Clint Bowyer Autoplex, Furniture Loft, Mel’s Tire and the USD 253 Emporia Bus Barn.
KVOE has reached out to each of these businesses for comment with all but USD 253 declining comment at the moment. According to USD 253’s Community Relations Department, it is believed as many as three converters may have been stolen from district suburbans.
Hayes tells KVOE News they are looking for at least two suspects at this time. Police believe the suspects are driving a dark-colored Ford Escape and passenger car.
EPD has provided a photo of one of the believed suspects and a suspect vehicle. Those photos can be found online at KVOE.com.
As the investigation continues, EPD is encouraging residents to park their vehicles either in a garage or as near to their residence as possible to prevent their vehicles from being damaged. If you must park your vehicle on a public street you are encouraged to do so on a well-lit one that has a high volume of traffic.
If you have any information that can assist law enforcement in the case please call Emporia Police at 620-343-4200 or Lyon County Crime Stoppers at 620-342-2273.
