MEMPHIS, Tenn. —
Memphians are calling for accountability and solutions as more delivery trucks were targeted by thieves.
On Tuesday, Jan. 2, thieves stole packages from two UPS trucks and a FedEx truck all within five hours.
The first robbery was around 1:00 p.m. in Hickory Hill. Memphis Police (MPD) released video of thieves grabbing boxes and running out of the truck.
The next incident was around 4:30 p.m. in the 5100 block of Queen Elizabeth Fairway. Investigators said a UPS driver was parked when he heard someone open the van door. MPD said three suspects in masks started removing packages, and yelled at the driver to stay where he was. They took off in a black Nissan Maxima which investigators said was later spotted behind Fairley High School with suspects going through packages.
The third was about 45 minutes later. Video from an ABC24 viewer shows a driver going inside to make a delivery on Appling Road. Thieves immediately pull up behind the UPS truck, stealing several packages before taking off. This upset April Bush, who works nearby.
"We work so hard for our money to buy the things that we want and it's so sad for someone just to steal them," said Bush.
Another Memphian, Demontae Kimble, said this rash of thefts is unsettling.
"My package could have been on that truck, and it could've been something I needed. What if it's something I really need? like me having a newborn, what if I need those pampers or those wipes,” said Kimble.
Bush said there must be a solution and believes it could take a collaborative effort from the community.
"Parenting can help. being aware of your surroundings and always try to look out for your neighbors," said Bush.
But, Kimble thinks the delivery companies should be held accountable.
"They should be armed. They should have more cameras and they should stop riding with the doors open," said Kimble.
FedEx released the following statement:
“We have rigorous safety and security programs in place and regularly issue reminders to our employees and service providers about the importance of both personal and vehicle safety. This includes remaining vigilant and immediately reporting any unusual activity. Additionally, we proactively address potential threats by engaging with local, state, and federal law enforcement authorities and by monitoring crime trends. We apply these learnings internally on a regular basis to ensure our security procedures remain current.”
UPS released the following statement:
We are aware of the incident involving members of our team. The safety and well-being of our employees is our number one concern. Drivers are taught to be aware of their surroundings and to report anything they consider unsafe to the police and their local management team. We work with local law enforcement across the country to stay abreast of crime in specific areas and take appropriate measures if criminal activity becomes a concern.
As this is an ongoing investigation, we are not able to make additional comments currently, but instead defer to investigating authorities.
MPD believes the two UPS thefts could be connected. All of these incidents are under investigation.