Police Issue Alert After Thefts At Sandcastle

WEST HOMESTEAD (KDKA) -- Police are investigating after a car was stolen from the parking lot in Sandcastle and two other vehicles had items taken from inside them.

West Homestead Police and park officials are warning patrons to be careful with their valuables inside the waterpark and in the parking lot.

Officials say park security caught several juveniles breaking into cars on Monday.

"Once we were alerted both our management staff as well as our public safety team went out and apprehended them and held them here until West Homestead Police showed up," said Melissa Kelly, a Sandcastle official, said. "Individuals are just walking by, looking in cars, seeing people's valuables, finding entry into the vehicle and taking what the can," said Officer Dan Kinzel, of West Homestead Police.

Someone stole a woman's purse, which contained her wallet and car keys.

The thief found her car in the parking lot and drove it away. The car, a 2007 dark blue Jeep Patriot, still hasn't been recovered. It has PA plate HYA-0010.

Meanwhile, police say thieves stealing patrons belongings inside the park may be an even bigger problem.

"Inside the park, it's usually like beach bags, purses and such with cell phones, iPhones, car keys, money, credit cards, stuff like that," said Officer Kinzel.

Police say there are several things patrons can do to avoid becoming a victim.

"There was 6,000 people there yesterday," says Officer Kinzel. "We're just telling people to keep their belongings at home if they can, or secure them in their vehicle trunk. Sandcastle offers lockers inside the park for a small amount of money and they can use them.

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