Rash of Auto Break-ins El Cerrito

Eight vehicles were broken into and items were stolen in central El Cerrito last night or early this morning, Wednesday, according to El Cerrito police.

The thefts occurred in the general area of eastern Gladys Avenue and nearby Scott Street, said El Cerrito police Lt. Paul Keith. That area is near the northeast corner of Castro Park.

The burglar or burglars gained entry to the vehicles by smashing the windows instead of opening the doors, thus not triggering car alarms that depend on doors being opened, Keith said.

Police learned of the crimes when alerted by residents this morning, Keith said.

"The main preventive measure is to remove items from your car that are visible from the outside," he said. Some of the vehicles had items that could be seen  through the windows, he said.