Chattanooga, TN – The Chattanooga Police Department is issuing a strong warning to gun owners following a sharp increase in vehicle break-ins across the city this week — with firearms increasingly becoming the target.
In a message shared via social media, CPD emphasized a blunt but critical reminder: a vehicle is not a gun safe.
Officers say in multiple recent cases, guns left unsecured in vehicles were stolen during break-ins. Many of the thefts appear to be crimes of opportunity, and police warn that even brief stops — where owners may believe their weapon is well-hidden — can lead to dangerous consequences if a firearm is left behind.
“We get it. You meant to grab it. You thought it was really well hidden. You were ‘just running in’ for a minute,” the department said in its statement. “But instead someone else grabbed it, it wasn’t hidden as well as you thought, and now a criminal is running off with your gun.”
Officials stress that these stolen firearms often end up on the black market or used in violent crimes, further escalating public safety concerns.
The department urges those who must leave a firearm in a vehicle to use a bolted-down lockbox and avoid displaying stickers or branding that indicate the presence of a weapon — such as pro-Second Amendment decals or firearm-related logos. These can unintentionally serve as signals to thieves.
“One stolen gun is one too many,” CPD stated, as it reminded residents that everyone plays a role in keeping the community safe.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity by calling 423-698-2525, or to dial 9-1-1 in an emergency.