by Large-scale acts of vandalism at car dealerships
Crime does not go unpunished, but some individuals still try to avoid responsibility. However, those who commit such acts repeatedly significantly reduce their chances of remaining free. This is exactly what happened to a man from Montana who, according to police, damaged about 70 premium-class cars at various dealerships and also caused damage to other vehicles. He is currently in custody.
Chronology of events
According to Salem, Oregon police, the first incident occurred on September 11. Surveillance cameras captured an individual whom law enforcement identified as the suspect damaging approximately 35 cars at the Mercedes & Acura of Salem dealership on Commercial Street SE. According to investigators’ estimates, that night caused damages of about $58,000.
Rampage on dealership premises
Video footage obtained from local media shows the individual arriving at the dealership premises in a Range Rover Evoque. After that, the driver got out of the car and began damaging tires and also likely scratched the bodies of several cars. It is noted that among the damaged vehicles were also customer cars that were being serviced or awaiting pickup.
Continuation of vandalism
The situation escalated even further when, three days later, a similar incident occurred at the BMW of Salem dealership on Van Ness Ave NE. This time, the perpetrator damaged another 35 cars, causing damages of about $100,000. Furthermore, police believe they have identified at least 20 separate victims of the actions of the same suspect outside of the car dealerships.
Arrest and charges
Law enforcement identified the suspect as Brian Werner from Kalispell, Montana. He was arrested on September 16 on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol and reckless driving. Police also found out that there was already an arrest warrant out for Werner in connection with incidents involving weapons and criminal offenses. As a result, his car and numerous weapons were confiscated.
Possible additional victims
Despite the arrest, police do not rule out that there may be additional victims between Montana and Oregon. Individuals who suspect that their vehicles were damaged by Werner can report it to the Salem Police Department, referencing case number SMP25079703.
Such cases of mass vandalism at car dealerships indicate the need for enhanced security measures, especially for facilities storing expensive vehicles. The increase in such incidents may be related to a low fear of justice or insufficient security of the premises. Additionally, it is important to consider the psychological aspects of the perpetrators’ behavior, who often resort to such actions as a form of protest or a way to attract attention. Improving surveillance systems and cooperation between regions could help prevent similar incidents in the future.
