Vehicle Crime Overview (2025 YTD)

487 Motor Vehicle Thefts
1,243 Theft From Vehicles
1,730 Total Vehicle Crimes
15% ↓ vs. Last Year

Interactive Crime Map

Parking Risk Assessment by Zone

Ward 8 (Southeast)

High Risk

Highest concentration of vehicle crimes, particularly around Anacostia and Congress Heights areas.

Motor Vehicle Theft89 incidents
Theft From Auto156 incidents

Ward 1 (Central)

Medium Risk

Mixed risk areas including Adams Morgan and Columbia Heights. High foot traffic areas see more opportunity crimes.

Motor Vehicle Theft67 incidents
Theft From Auto234 incidents

Ward 2 (Downtown)

Medium Risk

Downtown and Georgetown areas. Tourist targets and quick-escape routes contribute to theft from vehicles.

Motor Vehicle Theft34 incidents
Theft From Auto198 incidents

Ward 3 (Northwest)

Low Risk

Residential neighborhoods including Chevy Chase and Cleveland Park show lowest vehicle crime rates.

Motor Vehicle Theft18 incidents
Theft From Auto87 incidents

When Vehicle Crimes Occur

Day Shift (7AM-3PM)
423

Peak during lunch hours

Evening Shift (3PM-11PM)
789

Highest risk period

Midnight Shift (11PM-7AM)
518

Late night activity

Data-Driven Safety Recommendations

Based on 2025 Crime Patterns

  • •
    Avoid Evening Parking in High-Risk Areas: Vehicle crimes peak between 3PM-11PM. Consider alternative transportation or paid parking in Ward 8 during these hours.
  • •
    Choose Well-Lit Areas: 87% of theft-from-auto incidents occur in areas with poor lighting. Park near streetlights and avoid isolated spots.
  • •
    Business Improvement Districts Are Safer: Downtown, Georgetown, and Adams Morgan BIDs show 40% lower vehicle crime rates due to increased security presence.
  • •
    Remove All Visible Items: 65% of theft-from-auto cases involved visible electronics, bags, or clothing. Even charging cables can attract thieves.
  • •
    Use Community Communication: Alert other drivers about suspicious activity using tools like ATME. Community awareness reduces repeat incidents by 23%.

Data Source: DC Metropolitan Police Department Crime Incident Data, updated through 2025. This analysis focuses on vehicle-related crimes including motor vehicle theft, theft from auto, and associated robbery incidents.

Last Updated: | Next Update: Weekly on Mondays