Dodge Charger stolen from driveway in theft that was caught on video in South Jersey

WASHINGTON TWP., N.J. (WPVI) -- A family in Gloucester County, New Jersey, awoke early Saturday morning to find their Dodge Charger stolen from their driveway, a crime police say was carried out by experienced suspects targeting a highly sought-after model.

The theft happened around 3:15 a.m. on Doe Court in Washington Township, where home surveillance cameras recorded two suspects approaching the red 2019 Dodge Charger Daytona.

"My view showed where they came from. It showed that one of the gentlemen had a weapon," said the homeowner, who asked not to be identified.

The video shows one suspect breaking the rear passenger window before the pair pushed the car out of the driveway.

According to police, the suspects moved the vehicle to the parking lot of Hurffville Elementary School across the street, where two other vehicles were waiting.

Police say one of those vehicles is believed to be another stolen Dodge Charger.

"I jumped out the bed and ran to my husband and said, 'The car is gone!' And I immediately called 911," the homeowner said.

She added that the sight of an armed suspect was the most frightening detail.

"Had I came out here there's no telling what would've happened to me."

She believes the suspects avoided starting the engine until they were farther from the home.

"Because that car is very loud. I would've heard it," she said.

The red four-door Charger has black wheels, a performance hood and Daytona badging on the rear spoiler.

Washington Township Police Chief Patrick Gurcsik said Dodge Chargers remain a top target for thieves.

He said the stolen vehicle was valued at more than $100,000.

"Extremely popular, especially on the black market, and extremely fast. They're able to re-VIN it or sell it to a chop shop and sell the parts," Gurcsik said.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, the Dodge Charger ranked sixth nationwide last year among the most stolen newer-model vehicles.

Gurcsik urged owners of similar vehicles to take protective steps.

"Keep it in your garage locked up," he said, noting that Faraday pouches can prevent thieves from reprogramming key fobs.

He added that steering wheel locks can also be effective.

Police say the Charger was last seen minutes after the theft, traveling over the Walt Whitman Bridge.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Washington Township police.