A recent investigation by Chicago police has revealed a disturbing trend of a suburban tow truck driver stealing cars from crash scenes in the city. Maximilian Gasienica, a 26-year-old from Oak Lawn, is accused of illegally soliciting at crash scenes and misinforming drivers about where he was taking their vehicles.
According to a Chicago Police Department report, Gasienica stole three cars from crash scenes in Lakeview, River North, and the South Loop this year. The report stated that three victims positively identified Gasienica as the tow truck driver who approached them at the crash scenes, even though they did not call for his services.
Gasienica allegedly used deceptive tactics to convince the victims to sign for his services, providing them with a form listing a fake tow company called “BTA Towing” and an address where no cars are stored. The report emphasized that neither the state nor the city has authorized this towing company to operate.
After failed attempts to locate and recover their vehicles, all three victims reported their cars stolen. Gasienica is facing charges of theft by deception and soliciting tows at the scene in connection to these incidents.
It is worth noting that CPD issued a warning in March about a similar incident involving a rogue tow truck driver stealing cars from crash scenes in the South Loop. Although Gasienica is not charged in those incidents, the modus operandi seems consistent.
To protect themselves, police are advising drivers to avoid unsolicited tows and to be cautious of “chaser” trucks that show up at crash scenes. They recommend verifying a tow operator’s municipal license number, keeping a copy of their license plate and vehicle identification number in a safe place, and contacting their insurance company before hiring a tow or roadside assistance.
This cautionary tale serves as a reminder to stay vigilant and informed in stressful situations, especially when dealing with tow truck operators at crash scenes. It is essential to take precautions and follow the recommended steps to prevent falling victim to car theft schemes.
