BETHALTO - The Bethalto Police Department said it investigated 17 vehicle burglaries and one stolen vehicle case in the community during May 2026, and urged residents to take precautions after a stolen vehicle containing a firearm was recovered this morning.
In a public safety announcement, the police department said the cases underscore the need for residents in Bethalto to secure their vehicles and valuables. In one incident, police said, a vehicle was stolen with a firearm inside.
Get The Latest News!
Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.
The Metro East Auto Theft Task Force recovered the stolen vehicle this morning, according to the department. The Bethalto Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division then responded to process the vehicle for evidence. During that processing, the firearm was recovered inside the vehicle, the department said.
The Bethalto Police Department said its Criminal Investigations Division is actively pursuing all leads related to the cases.
Police reminded residents to “always lock your vehicle, even when parked at home,” “do not leave valuables in plain sight,” “never leave vehicle keys or key fobs inside your vehicle,” and “secure firearms and other valuable property.”
The department asked anyone with information, who witnessed suspicious activity, or who has security camera footage that may assist investigators, to contact the police. The Bethalto Police phone number is (618) 377-5266.
