Thieves struck at Gerald R. Ford International Airport, swiping catalytic converters from vehicles parked in the north lot, used for long-term parking. Two such incidents this month have left travelers like Patrick Clark of Zeeland without a crucial part of their cars. Clark discovered the theft upon returning from a birthday trip with his girlfriend to Disney World, according to WOOD TV.

The catalytic converter from his 2010 Chevy Equinox was missing, making the car obnoxiously loud to drive. Although Clark had comprehensive insurance covering the cost of repairs, he described the feeling of violation that someone would harm his property for quick cash. "You definitely don’t think it’s something that will happen in airport parking lot where you’re paying for your car to be secure," Clark told WOOD TV. The repair would have run upwards of $1,500 without insurance.

These are not isolated cases as reports have emerged of other such thefts in airport's north lot. The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority acknowledged the incidents and emphasized their commitment to safety. "Our police regularly patrol all our parking lots as does our parking management partner," said Haley Abbas, Public Information Officer for the airport authority, in a statement to 13 ON YOUR SIDE. She assured that surveillance cameras are maintained across the property and lighting is ample.

Despite these measures, the lucrative nature of the metals inside catalytic converters continues to make them a prime target for theft. Kent County Sheriff’s Office indicates a stark increase in such thefts in recent years, although a minor decrease was observed last year, with 131 reported cases compared to 214 in 2022. Officials have suggested parking in well-lit areas as a precaution, a piece of advice that seems to echo through each unfortunate report. As the investigation continues, airport officials are urging anyone with information to call 616-233-6000, according to a FOX 17 News report.