Auto parts theft rampage in Silver Spring

Thieves are prowling neighborhoods near the Capital Beltway in Silver Spring. The South Four Corners area has been a particular focus of this recent theft spree targeting auto parts. Typically, they are seeking airbags and catalytic converters. Thefts were reported from vehicles parked on the following residential streets on May 21 and 22, 2026:

The 9300 block of Ocala Street in Branwell Park, the 10000 block of Reddick Drive in Sunset Terrace, the 9910 and 10000 blocks of Tenbrook Drive in Argyle Club Estates, the 500 block of Gilmoure Drive in Dawn Village, the 9100 and 9300 blocks of Wire Avenue in Sligo Park Hills, the 1000 block of Roswell Drive in Sunset Terrace, the 9100 block of Eton Road in Highland View, the 500 block of Harding Drive in South Four Corners, the 10100 block of Markham Street in South Four Corners, the 9000 block of Providence Avenue in Highland View, the 10100 block of Kinross Avenue in South Four Corners, the 1000 block of Strout Street in Argyle Forest, and the 10000 block of Grayson Avenue in South Four Corners.

I've also heard from residents in Aspen Hill that at least 8 vehicles were broken into there around the same time last week. In that case, the thieves were apparently targeting valuables. To protect yourself to the extent possible during these high-crime times, make sure your car doors are locked and all valuables are removed from the interior. Park in a well-lit spot, if possible. Have your catalytic converter etched with identification, or have an anti-theft shield installed over it (Toyota Prius is a favorite model of catalytic converter thieves). To discourage airbag thieves, time travel back to the 1990s and install The Club on your steering wheel.