Kyle reminds drivers of free steering wheel lock offer after thefts

KYLE, Texas (KXAN) — The arrest of three people in connection with a stolen vehicle in Kyle earlier this month prompted the city to remind drivers of a program aimed at protecting its residents from similar crimes.

Around 4:19 a.m., Feb. 10, officers with the Kyle Police Department tried to make a traffic stop on a Hyundai Elantra that was reported stolen from the Aidan Apartments on Amberwood South in Kyle, a City of Kyle news release said.

Once police initiated the traffic stop, the driver of the vehicle tried driving away, which then prompted a police chase that eventually ended in the Blue Meadow Drive in Austin, the release said. Furthermore, the vehicle struck multiple parked vehicles before the suspects tried running away.

Officers detained three of the four suspects in the vehicle. Jeremy Christian Cardenas, 18, of Kyle, was identified as the driver. Police also identified a 17-year-old from Austin and a 13-year-old juvenile from Austin. Police are still searching for a 16-year-old from Austin.

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Cardenas and the 17-year-old are facing several charges, which include engaging in organized criminal activity, according to police.

Anyone with additional information can contact Kyle PD at (512) 268-3232, submit an anonymous tip to the Hays County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-324-TIPS (8477), online at callcrimestoppers.com or by using the P3 Tips app on your smart phone.

How to get a free steering wheel lock

As a way to remind drivers with certain vehicles to stay safe, free steering wheel locks can be picked up at the Kyle Public Safety Center at 1700 Kohlers Crossing during regular business hours, the release said.

In order to receive the steering wheel lock, you have to be a Kyle resident. Furthermore, you must own one of the following vehicles:

  • 2011-2022 Hyundai Accent

  • 2011-2022 Hyundai Elantra

  • 2013-2017 Hyundai Elantra GT

  • 2013-2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe

  • 2011-2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring

  • 2011-2014 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

  • 2018-2022 Hyundai Kona

  • 2020-2021 Hyundai Palisade

  • 2011-2012,  2019-2022 Hyundai Santa Fe

  • 2013-2018, 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe; Hyundai Santa Fe XL

  • 2013-2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

  • 2011-2019 Hyundai Sonata

  • 2011-2022 Hyundai Tucson

  • 2012-2017, 2019-2021 Hyundai Veloster

  • 2020-2021 Hyundai Venue

  • 2011-2012 Hyundai Veracruz

  • 2011-2021 Kia Forte

  • 2021-2022 Kia K5

  • 2011-2020 Kia Optima

  • 2011-2021 Kia Rio

  • 2011-2021 Kia Sedona

  • 2021-2022 Kia Seltoa

  • 2010-2022 Kia Soul

  • 2011-2022 Kia Sorento

  • 2011-2022 Kia Sportage

If someone with one of these vehicles already purchased a steering wheel lock, Hyundai will reimburse drivers. All they have to do is call 888-498-0390 for more information.

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