KILGORE, Texas — The Kilgore College Police Department (KCPD) has recovered two stolen vehicles and taken two juvenile suspects into custody following a series of theft and burglary incidents this week.
Earlier in the week, officers responded to a report of a stolen vehicle. The unoccupied vehicle was recovered Monday, and investigators identified a juvenile runaway believed to be connected to the case.
After a second vehicle was reported stolen, KCPD detectives followed developing leads until Officer Torres located the vehicle Thursday afternoon on North Street. Two individuals fled the vehicle on foot when officers arrived. One suspect was apprehended immediately, while the second fled into a nearby wooded area.
Officers, detectives, and administrators quickly established a perimeter, deploying the department’s drone unit to assist in the search. With KCPD K-9 units away for training, the Longview Police Department provided a K-9 team that helped locate and take the remaining suspect into custody.
Investigators also received a report of a vehicle burglary this week. Surveillance video from the Spring Tree Addition showed individuals attempting to enter a truck, and police believe the same suspects are connected to both vehicle thefts.
Both stolen vehicles have been recovered and will be returned to their owners. The suspects, identified as juveniles, were transported to the Gregg County Juvenile Detention Center.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say additional arrests are possible.
Police are reminding residents to lock their vehicles, remove keys, and avoid leaving valuables or unsecured firearms inside vehicles. Anyone who notices suspicious activity is encouraged to report it to law enforcement.
