Maplewood authorities are investigating a vehicle theft in one of the Township's neighborhoods Tuesday evening.
Police say at approximately 6:40 p.m, a thief stole a red 2011 Kia Sorento that was left running near 1511 Springfield Avenue.
Maplewood officials sent a 'be on the lookout' to neighboring towns that the suspect sped away from the scene.
Township officials have constantly warned residents to use better judgment in securing their vehicles and stop leaving items in public view to avoid theft.
"The Maplewood Police Department works hard to protect the residents and their property. We are asking that you assist us in this effort by making sure all vehicles and homes are properly secured at all times," Chief Jimmy DeVaul wrote.
In some of the incidents that appeared as carelessness, Chief DeVaul released the following avoidable incidents that occurred since April 18, 2021:
April 22, 2021; Package Theft; At approximately 745 pm, a vehicle left running and unsecured on the 1700 block of Springfield Ave was stolen.
April 25, 2021; Package Theft; Between 2-6 pm, a package was stolen from the front of a home on Midland Blvd.
April 27, 2021; Theft; At approximately 11:55 pm, an electric scooter was stolen from the front porch of a home on Mountain Ave.
May 4, 2021; Theft from Motor Vehicle; During the daytime hours, a vehicle parked on Colonial Terr had a metal detector stolen from it.
All of the thefts remain under investigation.