Car windows smashed, items stolen outside Harmar Township gym

HARMAR TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Police are warning people about recent car break-ins at a gym parking lot in Harmar Township.

Thieves have smashed indows and stolen items from cars in the parking lot of Fitness 1440 off Freeport Road, authorities said.

Police said purses, a computer bag and gym bags have been taken.

“Whether they take a little something or not, it’s just an inconvenience. It’s a broken window. It has to be repaired,” Fitness 1440 General Manager Rick Villani said.

Channel 11 News found broken glass in several areas of the parking lot Thursday.

The break-ins are happening at all times of day. Police said a few have happened in the early-morning hours, while others have happened in the afternoon.

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The Harmar Township Police Department posted on Facebook a reminder to not leave valuables in plain sight in vehicles.

"If you have a trunk, I would suggest lock all your valuables where it's out of sight, out of mind," said Police Chief Jason Domaratz. "These guys are working quick. All they're looking for is something in a front seat or back seat."

Villani said the gym's location is probably a factor.

"I think it's easy access on and off (Route) 28 and the Turnpike, and you can get out different ways, the back or front," he said. "Even if you see somebody, by the time you get out, they're gone."

Meanwhile, the gym’s landlord said a surveillance system is being installed.

Cox Media Group