Chicago Police Warn of Citywide Airbag Theft Pattern Targeting Honda Vehicles

Authorities report over two dozen incidents in the Lakeview neighborhood in recent days.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Chicago police have issued a community alert warning residents of an ongoing citywide pattern of airbag thefts targeting late model Honda vehicles. The alert details over two dozen incidents that occurred in the Lakeview neighborhood between February 15-17, 2026, where suspects broke into the vehicles and stole the airbags from the steering wheels.

Why it matters

Airbag thefts can pose a significant safety risk to vehicle owners and the public, as missing airbags leave cars vulnerable in the event of a collision. The thefts also result in costly repairs for victims. This pattern highlights the need for Honda owners to take extra precautions to protect their vehicles.

The details

According to the police alert, the suspects targeted late model Honda vehicles by breaking the driver's side windows and removing the airbags from the steering wheels. The thefts occurred at various locations in the Lakeview neighborhood over the three-day period, with multiple incidents reported on the same streets and blocks.

  • Between February 15-17, 2026
  • Incidents occurred between 5:00 PM and 7:00 AM

The players

Chicago Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that issued the community alert about the airbag theft pattern.

Honda Motor Vehicles

The make of vehicles that have been targeted by the thieves in this ongoing citywide pattern.

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What they’re saying

“These are the most recent incident locations in an on-going city wide pattern.”

— Chicago Police Department (nbcchicago.com)

What’s next

Police are urging Honda owners to consider installing anti-theft devices on their steering wheels to prevent future airbag thefts.

The takeaway

This rash of airbag thefts targeting Honda vehicles in Chicago highlights the need for increased vigilance and security measures from car owners to protect their vehicles and personal safety. Law enforcement is actively investigating the pattern and encouraging the public to report any suspicious activity.