There is a new development in the series of tire slashings in Mayfair and Tacony; 6-more cars were hit Friday night. It was the 6th case of car vandalism in those quiet communities.
The surveillance camera on the corner of Cottman and Rowland that gave police their big break in the case.
Police say they have gone through a lot of surveillance video to find the best one of the serial tire slasher in the Northeast.
Northeast Detectives released the first image of the man they believe could be responsible for 80 cars having their tires slashed in the Mayfair section of Philadelphia.
Police say on March 22, 2012, at 9:30pm, an unknown male was caught on surveillance video approaching a parked vehicle located at Cottman and Rowland Avenue and slashes the right rear tire with an unknown object.
Philadelphia Police say the video shows him quickly puncture the tire of a Cadillac before simply walking off.
The suspect is also wanted in connection with several other tire slashings in the 15th District.
He is described as a white male in his late teens to early 20's with short hair, wearing a blue shirt, dark hooded sweatshirt that zips up the front, blue jeans and white sneakers.
"We have no idea why he does this," says Captain Jack McGinnis. "I guess he like causing people discomfort."
The slashings have cost residents thousands of dollars since October.
The most recent incident was Thursday night when the video was recorded. Nine cars were hit that night.
"This individual or group of individuals has basically terrorized the Northeast with this. You never know when you go to bed at night if you going to wake up with intact tires," Captain McGinnis said.
"I'm glad they finally have a picture of the guy," said Dave Toledo.
Dave Toledo lives in the hardest hit block, 4000 Aldine, and has been a victim of the slasher 11 times.
"We had a town watch meeting, I'm sure you've heard, last Tuesday," said Toledo. "And we all pulled together, and we've all been taking turns and doing the best we can."
Police also increased patrols in the area. Investigators are encouraging angry residents who may come in contact with the man to call 911.
"Let the police do their job," said Captain Jack McGinnis. "You might think you're going to hurt him, but he might end hurting you instead. He is carrying a knife, and I would say it's probably a very sharp knife."
On March 13, 2012, Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey announced a reward in the rash of tire slashings that have been occurring in the Mayfair section of Northeast Philadelphia.
During the press conference at Police Headquarters, Lodge #5 of the Fraternal Order of Police offered $5,000 for information leading to the arrest the people responsible for these vandalisms and a $2,500 reward for the arrest and conviction of the these suspects was offered by the Office of the Mayor.
Toledo says he plans to help his neighbors with their tire repair bills if he gets the reward, and donate the rest to help the homeless.
"It's been a nightmare," Toledo said. "It's really been a nightmare."
Police urge anyone with information about this pattern of vandalisms to come forward and help us put an end to this senseless and hurtful crime spree.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Northeast Detective Division at 215-686-3153 or 3154. You can also submit tips at 215-686-TIPS.
To view the video, click the link below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2IEkyVDNn0&list=PL812BB6680141C1CE&index=1&feature=plpp_video
