KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Knoxville Police Department said five firearms were reportedly stolen from cars over the weekend.
Over 60 firearms have been stole from cars in Knoxville so far this year.
The rate of guns stolen from cars in the U.S. has tripled over the last decade, making them the largest source of stolen guns in the country, an analysis of FBI data by the gun safety group Everytown found.
KPD said to prevent gun thefts from cars, people should make sure they either remove or safely secure valuables when leaving their cars — especially guns. People should also make sure to lock their cars and park in visible, well-lit areas if possible.
If a gun is stolen, gun owners should immediately report it to authorities and provide information about the weapon, such as its serial number.