Ellicott City, Maryland, January 1, 2026
On Christmas Eve, three individuals were arrested for breaking into 20 vehicles in Ellicott City and Columbia. Authorities utilized advanced technology to apprehend the suspects after a brief pursuit, raising concerns among residents during the holiday season. The investigation continues, with police encouraging the public to report any further information.
Ellicott City, Maryland: Three Arrested in Christmas Eve Vehicle Break-Ins
Ellicott City, Maryland – On December 24, 2025, three individuals were arrested in connection with a series of vehicle break-ins that occurred in Ellicott City and Columbia. The suspects, identified as 19-year-old Jan Carlos Arita, 18-year-old Anthony Alvarenga-Barrera, and a 16-year-old male, all from Baltimore, are charged with breaking into 20 vehicles and are suspected of involvement in nearly 30 additional break-ins on the same night.
Details of the Incident
At approximately 5 a.m. on Christmas Eve, Howard County police responded to reports of vehicle break-ins on Montgomery Run Road in Ellicott City. Upon arrival, officers observed a white sedan fleeing the scene. A brief pursuit ensued, but the suspects abandoned the stolen vehicle and fled on foot into nearby woods. Utilizing a drone equipped with thermal imaging, police were able to locate and apprehend the suspects within an hour.
Community Impact
Residents expressed concern over the break-ins, noting the disruption caused during the holiday season. One resident reported that multiple vehicles had their windshields shattered, leading to significant repair costs and inconvenience.
Background on Vehicle Break-Ins in Howard County
Vehicle break-ins have been a recurring issue in Howard County. In April 2025, police reported a decrease of more than 25% in such crimes compared to the previous year. However, incidents like the Christmas Eve break-ins highlight the ongoing challenges in addressing this issue.
Preventive Measures
Authorities advise residents to take precautions to prevent vehicle break-ins, including always locking vehicles, removing valuables from sight, and parking in well-lit areas. Community vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities are also crucial in combating such crimes.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is ongoing, and police are seeking information from the public to identify any additional suspects involved in the break-ins. Residents are encouraged to report any relevant information to the Howard County Police Department.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in Ellicott City on December 24, 2025?
On December 24, 2025, three individuals were arrested in connection with a series of vehicle break-ins that occurred in Ellicott City and Columbia. The suspects are charged with breaking into 20 vehicles and are suspected of involvement in nearly 30 additional break-ins on the same night.
How did the police apprehend the suspects?
Police utilized a drone equipped with thermal imaging to locate and apprehend the suspects within an hour after they fled on foot into nearby woods.
What impact did the break-ins have on the community?
Residents expressed concern over the break-ins, noting the disruption caused during the holiday season. One resident reported that multiple vehicles had their windshields shattered, leading to significant repair costs and inconvenience.
What preventive measures are authorities recommending?
Authorities advise residents to take precautions to prevent vehicle break-ins, including always locking vehicles, removing valuables from sight, and parking in well-lit areas. Community vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities are also crucial in combating such crimes.
Is the investigation ongoing?
Yes, the investigation is ongoing, and police are seeking information from the public to identify any additional suspects involved in the break-ins. Residents are encouraged to report any relevant information to the Howard County Police Department.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | December 24, 2025 |
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