NOPD is looking for a suspect who stole a rental car on Canal Street. 

The victim stated that on December 8, 2016, at approximately 7 p.m., his unlocked rental car was stolen from the 1300 block of Canal. The keys were left inside the vehicle.

On December 10, 2016, at approximately 1:30 p.m. the stolen vehicle was involved in a hit and run crash at I-10 West and Chef Menteur Highway. At the time of the incident the car was occupied by an unknown black male with a short haircut. Witnesses reported that the driver drove erratically on the interstate and exited at the Baton Rouge exit headed towards Metairie.

A photo of a similar make and model vehicle is included below.

If you have any information about this incident or the whereabouts of the stolen vehicle please contact Detective Ryan St. Martin or any Eighth District detective at 504-658-6080. Citizens with information that can help solve crimes are asked to call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or toll-free 1-877-903-STOP. 

Auto Burglary and Theft

Vehicle burglaries are largely avoidable. Here are some tips on how to avoid car break-ins and thefts:

1. Lock the doors

2. Close windows and sunroofs

3. Don’t leave valuables such as laptops, cell phones, wallets, purses or GPS devices in plain view

4. Put away the garage door opener and any items with personal information

5. Move valuables to the trunk before reaching your destination

6. Don’t leave keys in the vehicle