Car stolen in Windermere area neighborhood

An investigation is underway by the Windermere Police Department after several vehicles were burglarized and a car was stolen earlier this month.

Officers responded to a rash of car burglaries that took place between 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 23, and 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 24, in The Manors subdivision. 

According to the Windermere Police Department, multiple cars were burglarized and a 2002 Jeep Wrangler was stolen outside the home at 2526 Carter Grove Circle.

Another vehicle was burglarized at 2506 Tryon Place.

It’s a rare occurrence in the town of Windermere, said Detective John Allen, adding that the town saw just two incidents in June and three so far in July as of Friday, July 26.

“Five in a two-month period is a fairly small number compared to what you might see in other jurisdictions,” Allen said.

According to the Windermere Police Department, all the vehicles were unlocked and several of them had keys left inside the vehicles. 

“Don’t make it easy for your car to be stolen,” Allen said. “There are things that people can do to reduce the risk … not leaving your keys in your car. If you’re going to leave valuables in your car, don’t leave them in plain site. If you’re going to leave something in the car, put it in the trunk or hide and cover it up. If you can, bring it inside. … Take your valuables out of the car and lock the car.”

The stolen vehicle had a plate number of EEAC95.

Allen said cameras are an inexpensive and efficient way to help catch car burglars. Nearby residents are being asked by police to review any video footage they might have between 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 23, and 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 24, for suspicious activity.

Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is encouraged to contact the Windermere Police Department at (407) 876-3757 and speak with Detective Allen, who also can be reached by emailing [email protected].