Texas drivers can legally store a firearm in their vehicle, even without a license to carry, as long as they meet a few rules. The weapon must stay concealed, the person must legally own it, and, of course, they can’t use it for anything illegal. But while the law allows keeping guns in cars, police in Castle Hills say more criminals are taking advantage of it.

The Castle Hills Police Department said thieves have started targeting parked vehicles in the area, looking specifically for firearms. Officers believe more people are leaving guns inside their cars during daily errands, making them easy to steal.

Thieves often check for unlocked doors or peek through windows for anything valuable

If they spot a weapon in plain view, they can be in and out in seconds. Officers said that locking the car isn’t always enough if someone sees a reason to break in.

Police are urging gun owners to think ahead. If you can’t bring your firearm somewhere, like a gym, arcade, or amusement park, then leave it at home. Otherwise, secure it in a locked box or a hidden compartment inside the vehicle. Never leave it out in the open.

In 2022, the ATF tracked nearly 10,000 guns stolen from vehicles across the country

That number keeps climbing, and Texas cities have seen their share of the problem. Last year, The Associated Press shared that thieves are stealing firearms specifically from cars at triple the rate they did a decade ago.

Castle Hills officers want residents to stay alert, secure their firearms, and report suspicious activity. A moment of carelessness, they said, can lead to stolen guns ending up in the wrong hands.