The sentiment of never wanting a stolen car back, especially a prized possession like a Dodge Hellcat, resonates deeply with car enthusiasts. The original forum post highlights this feeling, acknowledging the emotional toll of car theft while raising serious concerns about personal safety in the face of rising carjackings. While the idea of armed self-defense might cross one’s mind, the reality of escalating violence during car thefts paints a grim picture, particularly for owners of high-performance vehicles like the Dodge Hellcat.
Recent events paint a disturbing trend. In areas surrounding the original poster’s location, carjacking incidents are becoming increasingly brazen and dangerous. One chilling anecdote recounts a retired fireman targeted while simply getting into his Trackhawk. Ambushed by armed thieves in a stolen Durango, the ensuing confrontation tragically ended with the victim’s death after he attempted to defend himself. Another horrifying incident involved a woman in a Charger, attacked at a drive-thru. Even compliance wasn’t enough to ensure safety, as she was senselessly shot and paralyzed despite surrendering her vehicle. These are not isolated incidents; they reflect a worrying pattern where criminals are aggressively targeting specific vehicles, and the consequences for owners can be devastating.
The unease expressed by the original poster about driving their “Ruby” (presumably a Hellcat) is palpable. The constant vigilance, the anxiety about parking, and the overarching fear of becoming a target are eroding the joy of owning such a powerful machine. This fear is not unfounded. SRT vehicles, including Hellcats, are frequently targeted by thieves. This could be attributed to a combination of factors, including their desirability on the black market, the thrill they offer for joyriding, and potentially, vulnerabilities in their security systems, possibly including aspects related to key fob technology and relay attacks which are known to target keyless entry systems. The ease with which these vehicles can be stolen is a significant concern for owners.
Local law enforcement policies, such as not pursuing car thieves to avoid collateral damage, inadvertently create a haven for criminals who are aware of these limitations and exploit them. This situation leaves law-abiding citizens feeling vulnerable and unprotected. The original poster’s contemplation of selling their Hellcat, despite the deep disappointment, is a stark indicator of the severity of the issue. It’s a heartbreaking decision driven by a genuine fear for personal safety, highlighting the unfortunate reality that for some, the risks associated with owning a sought-after vehicle like a Hellcat are beginning to outweigh the pleasure.
The call to “PLEASE BE SAFE OUT THERE!” is a crucial takeaway. For Dodge Hellcat owners and drivers of similar high-value vehicles, vigilance is paramount. While the original post doesn’t delve into specific preventative measures, it implicitly raises the question of vehicle security. Exploring enhanced security measures, understanding potential vulnerabilities related to key fobs, and being hyper-aware of surroundings are becoming increasingly necessary precautions in the face of these alarming trends.
