Thieves Caught on Camera Stealing Airbag from Chicago SUV

Chicago police release surveillance footage of brazen overnight theft in West Side neighborhood.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:54am

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Chicago police have released new surveillance video showing thieves stealing an airbag from a vehicle on the city's West Side. The incident occurred around 2:28 a.m. last Saturday in the 2400-block of West Fillmore Street, where a white car pulled up and someone got out, entered the passenger door of an SUV, and removed the airbag in less than two minutes before fleeing the scene.

Why it matters

Airbag theft is a growing problem in many urban areas, as the devices can be resold on the black market for hundreds of dollars. These thefts not only damage vehicles and put drivers at risk, but also contribute to higher insurance rates for all consumers. The release of this video footage aims to raise awareness of the issue and solicit tips from the public to help identify the suspects.

The details

The surveillance video shows a white car pulling up to the SUV around 2:28 a.m. Someone then gets out of the white car, walks over to the SUV, opens the passenger door, and removes the airbag in less than two minutes before driving off. Chicago police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact Area Four Detectives at 312-746-8253.

  • The incident occurred around 2:28 a.m. last Saturday, April 1, 2026.

The players

Chicago Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that released the surveillance footage and is investigating the airbag theft.

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What’s next

Chicago police are actively investigating the incident and urging anyone with information about the suspects or vehicle involved to come forward and contact detectives.

The takeaway

This brazen airbag theft highlights the growing problem of vehicle component theft in urban areas, which not only damages property but also puts drivers at risk and contributes to higher insurance costs for all. The release of the surveillance footage is an effort by police to raise awareness and solicit public assistance in identifying the suspects.