Emery Wainscott
News Editor
[email protected]

Repeated theft of car parts have been reported to the Murray State Police Department, according to the Murray State Crime and Fire Log.

A string of four theft and criminal mischief reports were made Feb. 7, 8 and 9. Specifically, catalytic converters were stolen from parked vehicles. The time of the incidents range from 1:30 a.m. to 3:40 a.m. and occurred in the Biology Building and Richmond Hall Parking Lots. Disposition at the time of publication is listed as inactive/investigation suspended pending evidence and one case remains open.

Murray State Chief of Police Jeff Gentry said this is a widespread issue across the nation—not just locally.

“The precious materials inside of the parts have high salvage value, and it’s easy and quick for the thief to steal,” Gentry said.

For crime prevention, Gentry said he encourages the public to report crimes when they see them happen. As far as an immediate response, Gentry said he suggests engraving the operating license number on the catalytic converter or visiting a third-party store for an anti-theft kit. 

Murray State Police are responding by enacting proactive patrols, monitoring video surveillance cameras and increasing awareness of these thefts to the campus community, Gentry said.

According to Louisville Automotive Shop’s website, individuals can know if their catalytic converter has been stolen based on the sound—the empty space where the converter was will result in an abnormally loud sound when starting the engine.

If your catalytic converter is stolen, report to your local law enforcement agency. If this crime occurs on campus, call 270-809-2222 or use the LiveSafe app. Contact your insurance provider to see if they will cover repairs.