San Jose’s New Crime Wave: Cars Turned Battering Rams in Bold Burglaries!

A quiet San Jose neighborhood was jolted awake early Sunday morning when a group of burglars rammed a car into a local liquor store, ripping off the front door with a metal chain. The break-in, which took place at New Aborn Liquors around 4 a.m., was captured on surveillance footage, showing the thieves executing their plan in mere minutes before making off with expensive liquor.

Store owner Ravi Patel, who has been running the business for over a decade, said he was devastated when he arrived at the scene. “I got a call from my security company, and when I got here, the whole front of the store was gone. It was heartbreaking,” Patel said.

A Growing Crime Trend in San Jose

Unfortunately, Patel’s store is just the latest victim of a disturbing trend in the Bay Area. Authorities say that criminals have been increasingly using stolen vehicles, particularly Kia and Hyundai models, to smash into businesses and loot high-value items before disappearing.

“This isn’t just a one-time thing,” said Officer Miguel Alvarez of the San Jose Police Department (SJPD). “We’ve seen a significant rise in these types of burglaries, where stolen cars are used as battering rams to break into businesses. It’s quick, it’s destructive, and it’s hard to stop.”

In previous cases, suspects have targeted smoke shops, convenience stores, and even ATMs, leaving business owners with thousands of dollars in damages. Many are left struggling to afford repairs while also facing the fear that their store might be next.

Community on Edge as Business Owners Demand Action

For small business owners like Patel, the emotional and financial toll is overwhelming. “We work hard every day just to keep our business running. Then something like this happens, and it sets us back so much,” he said. “Insurance doesn’t always cover everything, and fixing the damage can take weeks.”

Other business owners in the area are equally frustrated. Arturo Gutierrez, who owns a nearby restaurant, said his place has been broken into multiple times in the past year. “They smash the windows, grab whatever they can, and leave us to clean up the mess,” he said. “It’s not fair. We need more security and tougher penalties for these crimes.”

Local residents are also growing concerned. Some say they no longer feel safe walking around at night, worried that criminals are becoming bolder and more reckless.

Police Investigations and Security Warnings

San Jose police have been working to track down the suspects involved in these crimes, but the nature of these burglaries makes it difficult. Many of the vehicles used in the break-ins are stolen, and the criminals are in and out of stores within minutes, leaving few clues behind.

Authorities are urging business owners to invest in reinforced doors, security cameras with night vision, and alarm systems that immediately alert law enforcement. They also recommend vehicle owners take extra precautions, such as using steering wheel locks and parking in well-lit areas to prevent car theft.

For residents and businesses that may have footage of suspicious activity, police encourage them to come forward and provide any information that could help solve these cases. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the P3TIPS mobile app or by calling (408) 947-STOP.

What’s Next? San Jose’s Battle Against Burglary

While immediate security measures can help, community leaders say a long-term solution is needed. Programs focused on preventing youth involvement in crime, increasing law enforcement patrols, and addressing the root causes of these burglaries—such as economic struggles and organized theft rings—are all part of the conversation.

San Jose Police Chief Anthony Mata emphasized the department’s commitment to finding solutions. “We’re doing everything we can to catch these criminals and prevent future crimes. But we also need the community’s help. If you see something, report it,” Mata said.

For now, business owners like Patel are left picking up the pieces, hoping that justice is served and that their livelihoods won’t be threatened again. “I love this community, but this has to stop,” he said. “We need to feel safe again.”