The NOPD is seeking assistance from the public with locating a 2017 Ford Transit that was reported stolen from the First District.

The incident happened in the 2800 block of Tulane Avenue. The reporting person told police he left his place of employment at about 5 p.m. on Monday, (Dec. 11). The victim returned to the location at about 8:30 a.m. and noticed one of the Uhaul rental vans was missing.

The suspect in this incident was seen on surveillance video damaging the combination boxes at about 2 a.m. on Tuesday, at which time the individual gained access to the keys and removed the vehicle from the lot.

Auto Burglary and Theft Prevention

Vehicle burglaries and thefts 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 any keys in the vehicle, including a valet key or a spare key for another vehicle that parks near yours in your garage, driveway, etc.

7. Park in a well-lighted place whenever possible

8. Use the emergency brake when parking to make it more difficult for a thief to tow your vehicle away.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact First District detectives at 504-658-6010. Citizens with information that can help solve crimes are asked to call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-STOP.