San Antonio police announced a significant decline in vehicle firearm thefts after a multi‑agency crackdown. According to a statement from the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD), incidents have fallen 25% from 2023 to 2025 thanks to collaboration with local, state and federal partners.
Recent break‑ins illustrate the problem
Agustin Martinez, a resident of the Village of Hampton Cove apartments, discovered his firearm missing after burglars smashed the back passenger window of his pickup truck. “They only took my gun. That was about it. Nothing else was touched,” Martinez told KSAT 12 News. He said he had left the weapon in the center console after a night out and simply forgot it was there.
Another resident, Luis Servin, experienced a similar intrusion but his firearm was not taken. “My wallet was there. They didn’t take it,” Servin said. “They just broke the window, got inside, started looking for, I don’t know, I guess some guns.” Servin’s truck also suffered a costly glass repair, leaving him with a $1,500 deductible.
Police say thieves target pickups
San Antonio officers who responded to a series of recent car burglaries told KSAT 12 News that thieves appear to be hunting specifically for firearms. One officer noted that pickups are often targeted because owners are more likely to be carrying firearms inside the vehicle.
Official response and results
In a statement released on Tuesday, SAPD said the department has worked closely with local, state and federal partners to address the issue. “Through collaboration with our local, state, and federal partners, we have worked together to address firearm thefts from vehicles. Since these efforts began, incidents have declined significantly, with a 25% decline from 2023 to 2025,” the statement read.
The department also offered practical advice for firearm owners: avoid leaving firearms in vehicles, treat cars as insecure storage, and consider removing decals or bumper stickers that signal gun ownership, as these can draw unwanted attention.
Community impact and next steps
Both Martinez and Servin hope their experiences will serve as a warning to other residents. “I learned my lesson,” Martinez said. “I left it there. Forgot about it.” Servin added that the financial hit from the broken glass was an unnecessary cost.
San Antonio police continue to monitor vehicle burglary trends and encourage anyone who sees suspicious activity to call law enforcement immediately. The department’s proactive approach, combined with community vigilance, aims to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals and protect public safety.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
