Patrol

Wheels Stolen From Honda Fit at Park and Ride Possibly Linked to Street Racing: Police

Ian Stoba's head is still spinning after his Friday commute ended with a stunning discovery -- someone stole all four wheels right off of his Honda Fit as it sat at a Mill Valley Park and Ride.

"It was crazy. I didn't know what to think. It was a shock," Stoba said. "It never crossed my mind someone would steal the wheels off my car. I have a plan simple little car -- it's not fancy and not anything I ever thought would be a target for a crime like this."

Turns out, similar crimes have been happening across the country for years. Police said thieves are targeting the Honda Fit's 15-inch wheels, which are ideal for outfitting low-riding imports for street racing.

"As with any crimes we don't want to see this become a trend," California Highway Patrol Officer Andrew Barclay said.

The CHP said so far wheel theft is not common in the Bay Area, but they said the recent case is a big reminder vehicles are always vulnerable at Park and Rides.

"These vehicles are parked there for long periods of time," Barclay said. "They are targets."

The CHP recommends taking precautions and to never leave valuables visible. Drivers worried about their wheels being stolen are encouraged to install locking lug nuts -- something Stoba now has on his spare car.

Stoba is still dazed over the crime.

"At first I wondered if it was a prank, but clearly it wasn't and they were really gone," he said.

The CHP said it plans to hold extra patrols at Bay Area Park and Rides.

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