Car theft reported on Livingston campus, Hyundai, Kia vehicles vulnerable, says U. email

This weekend, the Rutgers University Police Department (RUPD) received a report of a car theft on Livingston campus, according to a University-wide email.

A 2016 Hyundai Elantra was found within the jurisdiction of the Edison Police Department after the victim, who is affiliated with the University, parked it in the Green Lot. The crime reportedly happened between Friday at 1 p.m. and Saturday.

The RUPD was unable to provide a description of the perpetrator.

The email also referenced a recent uptick in car thefts that have largely impacted Hyundai and Kia owners and directed readers to a statewide announcement regarding vulnerable vehicle models and anti-theft measures. The car companies are currently engaged in a lawsuit around the matter, which is set to hold its final approval hearing on July 15, according to the FAQ of a law firm involved in the case.

The RUPD asks the University community to remain alert, lock vehicles and avoid keeping valuable possessions in visible areas inside cars.