San Antonio Standard

As the holiday season approaches, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas is urging residents to secure their firearms properly when not in use. This reminder is particularly relevant for gun owners visiting shopping centers and malls, where leaving a firearm in a vehicle can pose significant risks.

This year alone, nearly 2,300 firearms have been stolen from vehicles in San Antonio. Retail parking lots are common targets for burglaries, with thieves able to break into vehicles and steal guns within seconds. Vehicles displaying military or law enforcement affiliations are especially vulnerable. Stolen firearms often end up being used in violent crimes within the city.

U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza highlighted the ease with which improperly secured guns can be stolen: “While you are shopping for holiday gifts to give your friends and loved ones, it takes no time at all for a thief to steal an improperly secured gun from your locked car.” He emphasized that these stolen guns could be sold and used in violent crimes, potentially harming law enforcement officers or innocent individuals.

Special Agent Michael Weddel from the ATF Houston Field Division stressed the importance of securing firearms: “Remember, keeping your firearms secure is key to preventing theft and keeping our community safe.” He advised using safe storage options if visiting places where firearms are not permitted.

Research funded by the Department of Justice under Project Safe Neighborhoods has shown that many gun owners underestimate the risks associated with leaving firearms in vehicles. Dr. Alex Testa from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston noted that even locked cars are susceptible to break-ins, making them prime targets for theft.

Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales stated that each stolen firearm poses a threat to community safety: "Preventing gun theft starts with responsible ownership by securing your firearms." Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar added that firearm owners must always be aware of where their weapons are stored.

San Antonio Police Chief William McManus urged responsible gun ownership by planning ahead and leaving firearms at home if entering establishments prohibiting them: “Stolen guns are used to commit violent crimes.”

The call for vigilance aims to reduce gun thefts during this festive period and ensure community safety.