DURHAM, N.C. — Guests at a Durham hotel were met with a distressing sight Tuesday morning after nearly 20 vehicles were broken into overnight in the parking lot.
The incident occurred at the LaQuinta Inn located at 4414 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd. When the WRAL Breaking News Tracker arrived at the scene shortly after 6 a.m., evidence of the widespread vandalism was clearly visible. Multiple vehicles had their windows shattered, leaving shards of glass scattered across the asphalt. Throughout the parking lot, personal belongings were strewn about, indicating that the suspects had conducted a thorough search of the vehicles.
Authorities are currently investigating the spree, which appears to be the latest in a troubling string of criminal activity targeting hotels along the busy Durham-Chapel Hill corridor.
The pattern of incidents has local law enforcement on high alert. This morning’s mass break-in is reminiscent of other recent crimes in the immediate area. In September, police launched an investigation into multiple vehicle break-ins at the Homewood Suites, located less than two miles away. In that incident, at least four vehicles were damaged, including a truck that sustained significant structural damage to its driver’s side window.
Furthermore, residents and travelers are reminded of a similar spree from earlier this year. In April, WRAL News reported on a dozen car break-ins at the Comfort Inn, which is situated directly next door to the Homewood Suites. These back-to-back occurrences have raised concerns among hotel operators and guests regarding security measures and the frequency of property crime in the vicinity.
Durham police have not yet released details regarding potential suspects or descriptions of those involved in the Tuesday morning incident. Investigators are currently canvassing the area for surveillance footage that may have captured the individuals responsible for the damage.
As the investigation continues, officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant. The Durham Police Department has reiterated a standard but critical safety warning for those parking in public areas: always keep valuable items completely out of sight. Leaving electronics, bags, or other valuables in plain view—even for a short period—makes vehicles prime targets for opportunistic thieves.
Hotel management has not yet released an official statement regarding the incident, but guests were seen surveying the damage to their vehicles throughout the early morning hours. Police are encouraging anyone who may have information or who noticed suspicious activity in the area between Monday night and Tuesday morning to contact them immediately.
As of Tuesday morning, the scene remained under active investigation, and commuters are advised to expect a heightened police presence in the area surrounding Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard while officers continue their work.
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