3801 Rock Quarry Rd, Raleigh, NC 27610, USA — Many people parked their cars in the general lot on Saturday night ahead of the Nelly concert at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek, unaware they’d return to busted windows and missing belongings.
It is the latest in a slew of car break-ins at the music park.
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"It was a little concerning, especially knowing that just because you lock your car doesn't mean it won't get broken into," said Natalie Bailes, who told WRAL News her car was spared from the break-ins during Saturday night's concert.
Though Bailes said she has been a victim of car break-ins at her home off Poole Road.
"I actually came out one morning and my car had been ransacked,” she continued. “Everything [was] pulled out of the glove compartment."
WRAL News previously reported in August that a 17-year-old was connected to 100 car break-ins and several stolen guns, including break-ins at a different concert at the music park.
Less than two months later, police are now investigating more break-ins and several potentially stolen weapons.
In July, Raleigh Police investigated more than 30 car break-ins at churches and more than 20 in the Brier Creek area.
"I want to say I'm shocked, but I'm not,” said Tenika Champion, who said she has lived in Southeast Raleigh her whole life. “Unfortunately, it's been happening a lot."
Champion said she never expected her own mother to be the target of these crimes.
"About three weeks ago, somebody broke into her car. Nothing was taken, but still, somebody broke into her car," Champion said.
Raleigh police said the parking lots at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek are always being monitored and have even used drones. But officers told WRAL News it is nearly impossible to prevent car break-ins.
Raleigh police told WRAL News one person has been arrested after Saturday's break-ins. Police said at least one gun was reported stolen, and a possibility that more were stolen. Police have not released the name of the person in custody.
People are urged to lock their car doors, avoid leaving guns and valuables inside their car and, if possible, to park in well-lit, highly visible areas.