Over 25 Break-Ins Rattle Erath Residents as Multiple Vehicles, Including an 18-Wheeler, Stolen

Residents of Erath are on high alert following an alarming series of break-ins and car thefts in the Erath and Henry areas. Early Monday morning, Patra and Macoy Daugereau reported their Ford Explorer Limited stolen from their driveway at approximately 3:30 a.m. By evening, the vehicle was located, albeit damaged.

Macoy Daugereau took to social media, updating the community that the thief remains at large. According to Daugereau, at least 25 break-ins took place in one night, with 10 vehicles, including an 18-wheeler, being stolen.

Surveillance footage from multiple sites showed the culprits scoping out vehicles several times during the night before deciding to steal them.

The Vermilion Parish Sheriff's Office and Lafayette Parish have been working diligently to aid victims. Patra Daugereau expressed gratitude, mentioning the thieves' attempt to deactivate her car's tracking system, which she successfully reactivated. "With the help of Vermilion Parish Sheriff's Office and Lafayette Parish my vehicle was found," she stated, warning the community, "These low life's like to work around 3 am-5 am."

Many residents echoed similar sentiments in response to the Daugereaus' updates. One commented, "That's awful! To think criminals were messing around in your yard and with your stuff is scary."

Another lauded the quick action of the Vermilion Parish Sheriff's Office, acknowledging their efforts in recovering some of the stolen vehicles.

Adding insult to injury, one thief had the audacity to snack on candy left on the Daugereaus' front seat.

Other residents have shared warnings, urging everyone to lock their vehicles and review any security footage. One resident recounted, "Erath peeps... lock your cars and watch your cameras."

However, the situation took another twist as online posts about the incident were bombarded with bots, spammers, and scammers. Despite this setback, the community remains unified in sharing information to aid the ongoing police investigations.

Local law enforcement urges anyone with pertinent information to come forward. As they work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice, residents all over Acadiana are reminded to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and check security cameras for any footage that could assist in the case.