Avon Police investigating series of vehicle break-ins

Local authorities are investigating a series of vehicle break-ins that occurred overnight Tuesday in West Vail and Avon. Officials believe the incidents may be tied to an organized vehicle theft ring operating out of the Denver Metro area.

“Investigators believe there are 4 suspects who are specifically targeting hotel parking areas and vehicles believed to contain firearms or cash. Notably, suspects are leaving behind other high-value items, including electronics and luggage, indicating a targeted theft pattern,” according to a Facebook post from the Eagle County Sheriff’s Office. “The suspects were seen entering the West Vail area in a dark blue Chrysler 300 bearing Colorado license plate QFZ-379 and criminally trespassing into several vehicles. The listed license plate is confirmed stolen out of Aurora, Colorado. The rear right window may be damaged, tampered with, or covered with film or a plastic bag.”

In Avon, the break-ins occurred at two hotel locations: The Springhill Suites and the Comfort Inn. A total of 12 vehicles were broken into, and in some cases, valuables were stolen, according to a Facebook post from the Avon Police Department. “This investigation is in its early stages; however, intelligence suggests these incidents may be linked to an organized vehicle theft ring operating out of the Denver Metro area,” according to the agency.

The same group is suspected of committing similar crimes in Silverthorne, according to the sheriff’s office.

The Avon Police Department asks if you observed any suspicious activity or have information that may assist investigators, to please call 970-748-4040 or email cib@avon.org. You can also contact the sheriff’s office dispatch at 970-479-2201 or submit a tip to Eagle County Crime Stoppers at p3tips.com.