Police warning Hempfield, Greensburg and North Huntingdon residents of recent surge in vehicle, home break-ins

Police are warning residents in several Westmoreland County communities, including Greensburg, Hempfield and North Huntingdon, about a recent surge in vehicle and home break-ins.

On Friday, state police released photographs taken from residential security cameras of people who are suspected of looking for unlocked cars and trucks in the vicinity of the 700 block Locust Street along Hempfield’s border with Greensburg that occurred last weekend.

Trooper Steve Limani said the images were taken between 2 and 5 a.m. Dec. 4. They depict multiple suspects who allegedly “canvassed Locust Street and broke into several unlocked vehicles and a residence,” Limani said.

A Springfield XDS .45 caliber handgun with two magazines was reported stolen from one vehicle, Limani said. He said the suspects then entered a Locust Street residence through an open garage door, went into the basement and stole two hunting rifles that were left in a chair.

“We’re reminding people to lock their vehicles and their houses,” Limani said.

A wallet, miscellaneous tools and a gold Bulova watch was stolen from another nearby vehicle, he said.

Limani said video evidence showed the suspects moving along Locust Street and adjoining streets into Greensburg, “looking into cars.”

This week, North Huntingdon police also warned of an increase in vehicle break-ins and released a photograph of a suspect who was captured on security video cameras looking into cars throughout the Circleville area. North Huntingdon police can be reached at 724-863-8800.

Anyone with information or who sees suspicious activity in Hempfield is asked to call state police at 724-832-3288 or 911.