Regional Car Theft Ring Interrupted After Police Chase Ends in Wakefield

Four Suspects Apprehended Following Early-Morning Pursuit Linked to Ongoing Surge in Vehicle Break-Ins Across Reading and Nearby Towns

Reading, MA — As most of you are aware, Reading, along with several other towns, has experienced a surge in car break-ins and stolen vehicles. We are working with all our law enforcement partners on solving these crimes.

On Tuesday, 5/27/25 at 2:30 a.m. Wellesley Police Patrol observed several masked, hooded individuals walking around the parking lot of an apartment building, as well as a gray Kia sedan stopped in the lot with its lights off. Upon seeing the police, all subjects entered the Kia and fled the area, ramming a police cruiser in the process. Wellesley Police pursued the Kia up 128 northbound, where the vehicle became disabled at exit 57 in Wakefield. Five subjects fled on foot. With the help of the Massachusetts State Police, Wakefield Police, Reading Police, and other agencies, four occupants of the vehicle were apprehended. All these incidents remain under investigation.

As a reminder, even though Reading is a safe community, please do not make it easy for criminals to commit crimes. The common theme of the car break-ins and thefts is that the vehicles were left unlocked, and the keys to the cars and valuables were left inside. Please lock your car doors and do not leave car keys or key fobs or valuables in your car.