Thieves once again targeting Toyota Prius cars in Madison to steal catalytic converters

MADISON, Wis. — Madison police are once again warning the public of catalytic converter thefts around the area.

Police said thieves have been targeting Toyota Prius cars in particular.

According to an incident report, a resident on the 3000 block of Atwood Avenue woke up early Tuesday morning and heard loud noises that sounded like “mechanical tools being used.”

Officials said the person saw a white SUV drive away from the area and discovered a catalytic converter was missing from a Prius parked outside.

Police shared a photo of the possible suspect vehicle.

Officials have reached out to the owner of the Prius and estimate the value of the stolen converter to be $1,800.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau said catalytic converter thefts have skyrocketed nationwide. As such, the NICB recommends vehicle owners do the following:

• Install a catalytic converter anti-theft device.
• Park fleet vehicles in an enclosed and secured area that is well lit, locked and alarmed.
• Park personal vehicles in a garage. If not possible and vehicles must be parked in a driveway, consider installing motion sensor security lights.
• Call local law enforcement and your insurer should you become the victim of a catalytic converter theft.