Officials address rise in car-related crimes

By Nicole Zappone The Citizen

Residents are concerned about the increase in crime locally – car break-ins in particular – and want to know what can be done to slow the trend.

“The vast majority of stolen vehicles tend to be unlocked, with keys in the vehicle, or cars left running unattended,” North Haven Deputy Chief of Police Andrew Stavrides said.

Fundraisers planned for family of firefighter

Press Release

On Dec. 26, 2022, North Haven firefighter Matthias Wirtz lost his life while fighting a structure fire.

The North Haven Professional Firefighters Association, the DeMartino family, and several restaurants in town have planned three fundraisers to benefit the family of the fallen firefighter.

“In some circumstances, forced entry did occur, but those incidents are not as common, ” he added.

The NHPD has seen an increase in vehicle thefts for three straight years. In 2020, 35 were reported, and in 2021, the number jumped to 49.

In 2022, Stavrides said local police responded to 68 thefts; a 38 percent increase from the previous year.

JRoos Restaurant, 243 State St., North Haven, will hold a TipA-Firefighter fundraiser Thursday, March 2 from 4 to 10 p.m. Twenty-five percent of the proceeds will be donated. Reservations are encouraged. La Lupa Restaurant, 344 Washington Ave., North Haven, will host a fundraiser with live entertainment Sunday, March 5 from 1 to 8 p.m. Twenty-five percent of the proceeds will be donated. This event is on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations will be taken.

A third fundraising event will be held at Ludal’s Restaurant, 28 Broadway, North Haven. Details to follow.