Police Warn Drivers About “Sliding” Theft Happening at Gas Stations

A new type of car-related theft is catching many drivers at the gas station off guard. Police are warning motorists to be vigilant as criminals take advantage of one of the most common habits drivers have when refueling their vehicles.

This crime is known as “gliding.” This happens when a thief quietly opens the vehicle’s passenger door while the driver is distracted at the gas pump. In many cases, the driver is only a few feet away from the vehicle and is unaware that the theft is taking place.

The technique relies on a simple moment of distraction. Drivers typically park, turn off the car, get out and start refueling while keeping the other side of the vehicle unlocked. During this brief period, a thief will enter the vehicle from the passenger side and steal valuables.

Purses, backpacks, wallets, smartphones and laptops left on seats are the most common targets, authorities said.

How ‘swipe’ theft works

The crime was simple but effective. According to police, a typical scenario has several steps:

1. The driver drove into the gas station, got out and started to refuel.

2. The vehicle remains unlocked while the driver stands next to the pump.

3. A suspect approached the passenger side of the car.

4. The suspect quietly opened the door, reached in and took valuables from the seat.

5. The suspect quickly left before the driver noticed.

In many cases, the theft only takes seconds.

Police say this tactic works because drivers focus on refueling their vehicles, watching the fuel pump display or checking their phones while waiting. It’s also best suited for SUVs because their higher ride height blocks the owner’s view.

Women are often targeted

Investigators say women are often targeted in these incidents. One reason is that handbags or backpacks are often placed on the front passenger seat while driving.

These items were clearly visible through the car window when the driver got out of the vehicle to refuel.

For thieves, this creates an easy opportunity.

Police said the suspects often monitor gas stations, looking for drivers who leave valuables in plain sight.

This risk increases when the driver also needs to care for children in the vehicle or is distracted by other tasks.

Accident area

Law enforcement reports that this type of crime has occurred in several urban areas across the United States in recent years. Nashville investigators say the tactic has been discovered recently in neighborhoods like downtown and Southeast Nashville.

Gas stations affiliated with grocery stores or convenience chains are common locations for this type of theft.

Police statistics cited in the report show authorities investigated more than 6,000 robberies over five years, a small number of which occurred at gas stations and convenience stores.

Although a relatively small proportion, police say these crimes are particularly concerning because they occur in public places where there is daily activity.

Safety advice for drivers

Police say preventing slide theft is simple if drivers remain aware of their surroundings and take a few precautions.

Officials recommend the following steps:

• Always turn off your vehicle and lock all doors before leaving a gas station.
  • Keep wallets, bags and electronics out of sight, preferably in your luggage.
  • Please be aware of your surroundings when refueling.
  • Avoid using your cell phone while refueling.
  • Remove earbuds or headphones so you can hear the activity around you.
  • If anything seems suspicious, stop pumping and return to your locked vehicle.

Even a fast door lock can eliminate opportunities for thieves.

crime of opportunity

Police stress that swipe thefts are rarely random acts. Criminals often spy on drivers and wait for the moment someone unlocks their vehicle and valuables are visible.

Because crimes happen quickly and quietly, victims often don’t realize something has been stolen until they’re back in their car.

Authorities say raising awareness is the best defense. Drivers who take the time to lock their vehicle and remain alert while refueling can greatly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

Gas stations are still a part of everyday driving, so motorists should treat them as they would any busy public place. Staying alert and protecting your vehicle can prevent a quick stop from turning into a costly mistake.

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