Everett police warn of uptick in gas theft amid rising prices

Rapidly increasing gas prices are prompting some thieves in the Puget Sound region to use a new tactic to steal fuel from vehicles.

AAA Washington: Gas prices are ‘at the whim of the market’

Whereas gas is typically stolen using rubber hoses to siphon out fuel, the Everett Police Department is reporting an increase in incidents where thieves have drilled holes directly into gas tanks with power tools.

According to data from AAA, Washington state is averaging $4.63 per gallon at the pump as of Wednesday, up from $4.04 a week ago, and $3.19 in early March of 2021. That number is even higher in the Seattle metropolitan area (which includes Bellevue and Everett), where gas prices are approaching $4.80.

In order to deter would-be gas thieves, Everett police recommend parking in a garage or in well-lit, high-traffic areas, and to call 911 immediately if you hear or see suspicious activity near your vehicle. If your gas tank is drilled into, do not attempt to operate your vehicle.

“If you are a victim of gas theft, it can be unsafe to drive with a damaged gas tank,” Everett police said in a news release. “Call 911 to report the damage to your vehicle and the theft of gasoline.”