Rash of residential burglaries in Eureka, blue van suspected to be involved

Over the last two days, the Eureka Police Department has responded to numerous daytime residential burglary reports with trends in the in the neighborhoods near Watson and D Streets and Henderson and K Streets.  

A witness reported seeing three white males, 20-30 years old, park a blue van near the 1600 block of D Street.  The males walked out of sight then returned to the vehicle with a guitar and other property.  A burglary report was taken soon after at a nearby residence describing the guitar and other similar property as being stolen.  A BOLO (be on the lookout) has been issued for this vehicle and occupants.     

  

Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious persons, vehicles, or activity occurring in their neighborhoods that may be related.  Anyone with information regarding the possible identity of the suspect(s) responsible for these burglaries is asked to call the Eureka Police Department at 441-4044.

The following are some precautions that homeowners can take to reduce their risk:  

· Keep all doors and windows closed and securely fastened when away.

· Invest in an alarm system/surveillance cameras.

· Secure sliding glass doors by placing a broomstick, metal rod or piece of plywood in the track and install vertical bolts. These will help prevent burglars from forcing the door open or lifting it off the track.

· Keep garage doors closed and locked.  Also keep doors that lead to interior of residence secured.  

· Create the illusion you are home by using timers on lights, radios, and televisions. Make your residence appear occupied even when no one is home.

· Keep the perimeter of your residence well-lit and trim any shrubs so they do not provide concealment for would-be-burglars.  

· Never leave a message on your answering machine telling people you are away from home.  Do not post on social media that you are out of town.  

· Do not leave clues that you are away on a trip. Have a trusted neighbor collect mail and newspapers while you are away so delivered items do not accumulate.

· Re-key the locks when you move into a new house or apartment.

· Do not hide keys where burglars can find them.  Consider leaving your spare key with a trusted neighbor instead.

· Report any suspicious activity/persons in your neighborhood to law enforcement immediately.      

· Join a neighborhood watch and/or use Nextdoor.com to communicate with your neighbors.