Are You Being Profiled?

After a fun and empowering Girl’s Night Out at the range, AG & AG member Kara was excited to continue the evening by grabbing dinner with her chapter sisters. Like many, she took smart precautions. She stored her range bags out of sight inside her truck, parked in a well-lit, high-traffic area near the entrance, and made sure nothing of value was visible from outside the vehicle. She did everything you’re taught to do to avoid drawing attention. But unfortunately, it still wasn’t enough.

While enjoying dinner, Kara received a security alert on her phone that her truck door had been opened. She rushed outside, but the thieves had already come and gone. Her three range bags, tucked away under the back seat, had been taken. Interestingly, nothing else in the truck was touched, an early indication that this wasn’t a random break-in. The thieves knew what to look for, and they likely followed her from the range.

The police officer who responded confirmed her suspicion. She was the third firearms owner targeted in similar fashion in recent weeks after visiting the same range. It became clear that Kara had been profiled. Whether the suspects spotted her when she pulled into the range or waited until she left, they watched, followed, and struck at just the right time. It’s unsettling, but it’s also a valuable reminder.

While you might often think of car break-ins as crimes of opportunity, many are far more calculated. These criminals are deliberate and observant. And even when you follow all the “rules,” it may not be enough to deter them.

Pro Tip: Some members now choose to bring their range bags into restaurants or other stops rather than leave them in the car. If that feels like a good fit for you, just be sure you’re in compliance with local laws and any posted signage regarding firearms or carry.

What You Can Learn

Kara’s experience was upsetting, but it can serve as a helpful learning moment for you. Here are five key takeaways to consider:

Lesson 1: Situational awareness is always your best defense.

Whether you’re heading home from the range, stopping at the grocery store, or arriving at a restaurant, stay mindful of your surroundings. Look around. Notice who’s nearby. Pay attention to vehicles that may be following you or lingering where they shouldn’t be. Trust your instincts; they’re there for a reason.

Lesson 2: Know before you go.

Some neighborhoods or locations have a higher rate of theft and break-ins. It’s worth doing a quick check online or asking friends or local law enforcement if you’re heading somewhere unfamiliar. If a certain spot has a reputation for vehicle thefts, it’s smart to choose a different location or take extra precautions.

Lesson 3: Act quickly if something happens. Security footage can be incredibly helpful, but it often gets deleted or recorded over within days or even hours. In Kara’s case, the restaurant’s video system had already overwritten the footage by the time detectives followed up. If you’re ever the victim of a crime, act fast. Ask the business owner or manager to save the video and give law enforcement a copy as soon as possible.

Lesson 4: Secure your firearms with a vehicle safe.

A good in-vehicle gun safe, like a Console Vault, provides an added layer of protection. While nothing is completely theft-proof, a quality safe can deter thieves or slow them down enough to make a difference. Many safes are designed to fit discreetly in specific vehicle models, offering secure storage that blends into your interior. It’s especially wise to store concealed carry firearms separately from recreational gear.

Lesson 5: Keep a current inventory of your gear.

If a theft does occur, being able to quickly provide serial numbers, descriptions, and documentation will help law enforcement and your insurance company take action. Keep a digital log of your firearms and range equipment, complete with receipts and photos if possible. It’s one of the easiest ways to protect yourself after the fact.

Kara’s story is a powerful reminder that firearms owners like you can be specifically targeted, especially when traveling to and from ranges, events, or competitions. Parking lots at hotels, restaurants, and venues can be vulnerable places, particularly when criminals know what signs to look for.

You can’t eliminate every risk, but you can be more informed, more prepared, and more aware. Kara’s experience, while unfortunate, is something you can learn from and use to better protect yourself and your gear.

Stay safe. Stay aware.