Police: Thieves stealing cars by bumping them first

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A car was rear-ended and then stolen late Thursday night in Chicago's River North neighborhood.

The incident was one of several so-called "bump-and-runs" recently.

According to investigators, a man driving a Porsche was hit from behind near Hubbard and Kingsbury Streets. When the driver stopped to check the damage, the offenders got into his car and drove away.

Police said the theft followed a familiar pattern that has come to be known as a "bump-and-run."

Alderman Michele Smith (43rd Ward) issued a safety alert to residents after there were three car thefts using the same technique. They happened on June 9 at 2:00 p.m. on North Clybourn Avenue, the evening of June 13 on North Dayton Street and the evening of June 15 on East LaSalle Drive.

Chicago Police suggested that if you are in a minor accident:

-Pull over in a populated area

-Turn off the vehicle

-Take the keys out of the vehicle