Scioto County deputies rushed to Kroger after reports of a suspicious man allegedly trying to open vehicle doors in the parking lot.
According to dispatch information, the man was described as:
- Bald
- Wearing shorts
- And an American flag shirt
Callers reported the man was going from vehicle to vehicle attempting to open doors.
Deputies responded quickly to investigate, but the suspect was gone before officers arrived.
⚠️ WHY STORE PARKING LOTS ARE COMMON TARGETS
Police say grocery store parking lots are especially vulnerable to thefts and suspicious activity because:
- People are distracted loading groceries
- Vehicles are frequently left unlocked
- Purses and wallets are left visible
- And shoppers often assume they’ll only be inside “for a minute”
Criminals sometimes simply walk through parking lots checking for unlocked doors.
👀 HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
Deputies recommend:
- Locking your doors immediately after exiting
- Never leaving purses, wallets, or guns visible
- Parking in well-lit areas
- Staying alert while loading groceries
- Avoiding distractions like phones while walking to your car
🚔 IF SOMEONE IS CHECKING DOORS
Police say residents should:
- Avoid confronting suspicious people directly
- Stay inside businesses or vehicles if uncomfortable
- Get descriptions if safely possible
- Call law enforcement immediately
Because someone checking car doors may be looking for much more than loose change.