Thieves are continuing to use an unnerving ruse to get drivers out of their cars in Chicago called the "bump and run," months after multiple reports from victims, police say.
The bumper tapping thefts and attempted thefts have been reported in numerous parts of the city, police say. The most recent occurred in the River North neighborhood Thursday night about 11:30 p.m. at the corner of Hubbard and Kingsbury.
Police say a man driving his Porsche was rear-ended by a white Infinity. When he got out to take a look at the damage, two men jumped into his vehicle and sped off with the white Infinity close behind, according to police.
"Obviously your first instinct is to jump out, take a look and see if everything is ok and that's when they move in," said Julie Malec, a concerned neighbor.
Malec said she's heard about the string of "bump and run" thefts. She said she often drives from the East Bank Club, right across from the latest reported theft.
"This club has a lot of nice cars around it," she said. "There's always nice cars right over in the valet lot. But, that's pretty shocking. You really need to keep your eyes open."
Being aware is one way to protect yourself, but police say there are other ways to keep you from becoming a victim.
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If you're hit and you want to assess the damage, police say turn off your engine.
Take your keys or FOB with you and lock your windows and doors.
If you're concerned for your safety, stay in your vehicle and call police.
Another victim was sitting at Diversey and Wolcott last May when, she says, her BMW SUV was rear ended.
The victim watched the car pull past her before the driver got out and walked slowly to the back of her SUV.
She knew not to get out, because of a similar incident in Wicker Park involving a friend, she told NBC 5.
"That's why I felt compelled to share because this is happening and it's happening in broad daylight," the victim said. NBC 5 is not naming her due to concerns over her security.
Similar incidents have been reported on May 8 in the 100 block of South Racine, May 1 at Augusta and Wood, April 30 at Noble and Milwaukee and April 10 in the 400 block of North Damen and April 7 in the 1100 block of South Racine.
Chicago Bears wide receiver Kevin White’s car was among those taken in what is believed to be a“bumper tapping” carjacking in Chicago, a source confirmed to NBC 5 last month.
