Thieves Steal Gas by Drilling a Hole in Truck, Cause $2,000 in Damage
Thieves Drill Into Pickup Truck’s Gas Tank, Stealing Fuel and Causing Major Damage
LONG BEACH, Calif. — A local resident has reported a theft in which thieves drilled into his pickup truck’s gas tank, stealing fuel and leaving the vehicle with approximately $2,000 in damages.
Jose Figueroa filled up his truck on Sunday, but discovered it empty the following morning when he went to refuel. “I hear what sounds like a faucet running. I look down and there was gasoline all over,” Figueroa recounted while speaking with FOX 11.
Footage taken on his cellphone captured the moment he discovered a hole, roughly the size of a dime, in the gas tank. He indicated that it seemed to have been temporarily covered with tape. Figueroa estimates that around $80 worth of gas was stolen, yet he faces significant repair costs as the entire fuel system will need replacement.
The theft is believed to have occurred overnight near Drake Park, an area equipped with surveillance cameras. Neighbors have noted that such crimes are becoming increasingly common. “It’s not only stealing gas, but it’s breaking into cars, breaking into houses. It’s really bad,” one neighbor stated.
Figueroa also learned from a tow truck driver that he was the fifth person that day facing a similar predicament in the Long Beach area. The incident coincides with rising gas prices in Los Angeles, where costs have surpassed $6 per gallon, raising concerns about an increase in fuel-related thefts.
In a statement, AAA acknowledged that while they do not have current data indicating a rise in gas thefts directly linked to higher prices, they warned that such crimes can occur and could result in considerable damage, often costing $1,000 or more to repair. They advised drivers to park in well-lit, high-traffic areas and to remain vigilant for warning signs of fuel theft, including the smell of gasoline or unexpected drops in fuel levels.
Figueroa expressed hope that sharing his experience will alert others to the risk. “We have enough worries,” he said. “The last thing I want to worry about is someone stealing our gas.”
