Elm City police investigate Honda thefts

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- Elm City police are investigating a series of car thefts. They say thieves could be after your car next, and that they're targeting a specific kind of vehicle.

An H stands for Honda, but to thieves it marks the spot as an easy grab.

News 8 caught up with Michelle and Holly. They're so close they even drive the same car.

"Michelle had gotten her Honda first," said Holly Mulrenan.

News 8 told the ladies about the New Haven Independent report saying there were 10 Hondas stolen in one week, including two in the middle of the day on Sunday in busy areas like Temple and Orange streets.

"Wow! Are they easy to break in to," asked Michelle Smith.

Well, older models apparently are. The National Crime Bureau says the 1994 Accord model and the 1998 Civic are the most stolen. They lack security features newer models have.

"I know over the years there have been other cars that were targeted," Smith said. "I wasn't aware Hondas are now that, may dissuade me."

Also, for many years it rivals Toyota as one of the most sold car makers in the U.S. So, parts are desirable.

"I work in Bridgeport and I park my car on the street in Bridgeport," Mulrenan said. "So, if it's happening in New Haven I imagine it's happening elsewhere too."

She'll keep a watchful eye, while Smith plans to invest in security.

"Oh, I'll get an alarm and I may not come into New Haven," Smith said laughing.

Minutes later, she had a change of heart. She's not ready to say goodbye to the Elm City.

"I won't come in my Honda," Smith said. "I'll come in my husband's Ford Fusion from now on."