Authorities in Manville say that a serial tire slasher has struck again, this time targeting 80 more vehicles.
The owners say that they woke up Wednesday morning to find that their tires were cut overnight. Police say that the crime happened sometime between midnight and 3 a.m. in the northwest section of town.
This is the third time that this type of crime has happened in Manville and the second time this month. About 35 cars were vandalized on Aug. 2. Police also say that 40 vehicles had their tires slashed on June 11. The suspect typically targets cars parked along the street. But police say that this time cars parked in driveways were also vandalized.
“It’s concerning. You never want people to invade your space just to do it,” says victim Jenna Xenophontos. “Now we have to fork out a couple of hundred dollars. These were good tires. It’s frustrating.”
Manville police say that they are going over video surveillance to see if they can identify the suspect.
“We do have leads and we’re actively investigating the case very aggressively,” says Lt. John Crater.
Police say that they believe that the suspect is acting alone. He is described as a tall, thin white man who was wearing a dark-colored hooded jacket.
Somerset County Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $750 for information leading to an arrest.
Anyone with any information about the incidents should call 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at 908-231-7100 or the Manville Police Department at 908-725-7677.