Gun Thefts from Parked Cars Rise 31% in Urban U.S.

A report from the nonpartisan Council on Criminal Justice highlights a significant rise in firearms stolen from parked cars, especially in urban areas, where such thefts accounted for 40% of all reported gun thefts by 2022—a 31% increase over five years. Cities like Memphis and Detroit exhibit particularly high rates, with Memphis leading at 546 reported gun thefts per 100,000 residents. While overall gun thefts have remained steady, vehicle-related thefts have nearly doubled in major cities, contrasting with a 40% decline in gun thefts from homes and businesses. The report underscores the lack of comprehensive national data and a nationwide tracking system for stolen guns, complicating efforts to address the issue. Experts emphasize the need for stronger firearm storage policies and public education, especially as stolen guns are disproportionately recovered at crime scenes and contribute to escalating gun violence. With crime and firearm policy prioritized under President Trump’s administration, researchers call for urgent further study to understand and mitigate the role of stolen guns in the broader cycle of violence.