The Columbia Police Department is investigating a rash of vehicle break-ins that occurred over the weekend.

A total of 12 cars were burglarized, Columbia Police Chief Joe Edwards said.

“Of those 12, one of them had the window broken,” he said. “The majority of cars were left unlocked with property easily accessible.”

The vehicles burglarized were located in the northern end of town, specifically on Cascade Drive, Glenwood Drive and Evergreen Lane.

Edwards said his department is actively working on leads in an attempt to identify the person or persons responsible. 

Anyone with information on these crimes is asked to call the CPD at 281-5151. The Illinois State Police Crime Scene Unit is assisting with this case. 

The chief also wished to remind vehicle owners to keep their car doors locked and valuables stored away from plain view.